June 1 marks the start of the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season. So, what lessons can we learn from the last few hurricane seasons? We’re covering a few major takeaways all Floridians should keep in mind during the 2021 hurricane season - and how they should be preparing for the months ahead.
Talk to your agent about your coverage BEFORE hurricane season
We often hear that hurricane deductibles are high in Florida, but for a good reason! You can end up paying thousands of dollars out of pocket if you have the wrong coverage. After the hurricanes in 2004, 2% deductibles have become the new normal. We work with a few companies that do offer lower hurricane deductibles if a high deductible is a concern. Making sure you are set before a hurricane is predicted for Florida is imperative, though. Ask for an insurance checkup to make sure you have enough homeowners insurance to repair or even replace your home. Don’t forget coverage for your car or boat. Remember, standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding. Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, you’ll need a separate policy for flooding. Keep in mind flood insurance policies require a 30-day waiting period.
Prepare, prepare, prepare
Tax-free weekend for Disaster Preparedness will run from May 28 through June 6, coinciding with the start of hurricane season. We all remember the panic that ensues after a hurricane is projected to hit Florida. Lawmakers are making sure Floridians have ample time to prepare themselves at the start of hurricane season. This is the perfect time to stock up on a generator, flashlights, and other big-ticket items. A basic disaster kit should include the following items:
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Enough water per person for at least three days (for both drinking and sanitation)
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Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
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Flashlight and batteries
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Cell phone with chargers or solar charger
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First aid kit that includes enough medicine for all members of your family - including the furry ones
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Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation
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Manual can opener
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Important family documents, such as copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container
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Cash
Preparing for hurricane season can seem daunting, but it’s an important step to ensure you and your family's safety in uncertain times. The time to prepare for a hurricane is before it begins. If you wait until a hurricane is on your doorstep, the odds are that you will be under stress and will make the wrong decisions. Sit down and create a plan now. This should include when you will evacuate and where you will go.
If you have any questions about hurricane preparedness or homeowners insurance in Orlando, feel free to message us on Facebook or email me! At Harrell Insurance, we’re happy to be your go-to insurance agent in Central Florida.
