The inevitable hurricane season is approaching quickly so we’ve composed some information to help better prepare you for potential damage to your home and belongings. While we hope and believe that this year will have a rather uneventful storm season, we want you to feel ready and as comfortable as possible, should we encounter a hurricane.

Here are a few ways you can prepare your home:

• Trim any trees or branches, especially those that hang over your roof or fence.
• Tidy up any loose debris in the yard or equipment parked around the house.
• Secure windows with shutters or boards.
• Have your roof inspected to ensure no missing shingles, nails, or clips.
• Stock up on water, non-perishable food, batteries, flashlights, generator, cooler of ice, etc.
• Be sure any required medication is purchased or prescriptions filled.

In addition, here are some tips to think about regarding your homeowners insurance policy:

• Read through your declarations page to be sure you understand what coverage you have and what each limit is.
• Pay attention to your All Peril deductible and Hurricane deductible, which are almost always very different. Any named storm or spinoff damage will have the Hurricane deductible applied.
• Remember that flood insurance cannot be purchased and used immediately. Unless it is a requirement for loan closing, there is a 30 day wait for the coverage to be effective.
• Other Structures coverage can add up quick. Typically, that limit is 2% of the dwelling amount. Evaluate this amount if you have fencing, a shed or workshop, screen enclosure, etc. There are usually endorsements available to increase that coverage if need be.

We would be happy to review your policy with you anytime. Please feel free to contact us at (352)371-7977 or [email protected]. Thank you.