Hurricane season poses an annual threat to home owners in the Coastal Empire and Lowcountry.  For peace of mind, check with your insurance agent now to understand what is and is not covered under a standard homeowner’s insurance policy. 

What is covered is fire, lightning, falling trees wind and hail damage.  When it comes to destruction caused by high winds, a standard policy will likely cover such things as broken windows or the roof being blown off

What is not covered is flooding, i.e. damage that's  caused by rising water.  For that protection, you need a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program.  Although it's a federal program, your local agent often serves as the "conduit" to buy this coverage.  Typically, it takes 30 days for a flood insurance policy to go into effect, which is why planning ahead is essential.

If you live in a flood zone, flood insurance may not necessarily be required in all zones, but may be a good idea.  Depending upon the area, you may be eligible for coverage under the "preferred flood zone" plan.  This package offers the best rate and lowest deductible but coverage is pre-set for categories such as dwelling or contents. Check with your agent to see if you qualify for this preferred rate.  For those that live in a higher risk zone, flood insurance will be more expensive, but you can alter your coverage in various categories to suit your individual needs.  (If you are a renter or own condominium, check with an insurance agent on how to best protect your personal belongings.)

Agents suggest that you take pictures of the inside and outside of your house and create an inventory of everything inside.  If there is such an inventory, it helps insurance adjusters better assess the value of your losses.  But remember, if you need to evacuate, take the records and photographs with you.  Some even suggest that you create the record and store it elsewhere, such as a safety deposit box.  However, because there's always concern that your records might not be safe anywhere you might store them in a hurricane area, another idea is to make copies and sent them to relatives in other parts of the country. That way, you can be assured that your records will be available even if your home and public buildings in your area are destroyed.

A good homeowner’s (or renter’s) insurance policy is critical to recovering from a severe hurricane. Discuss the following with your insurance representative:
• Value of land and structure. Ask about policy and exclusions.
• Value of home contents. Prepare a complete home inventory. Take photos or videotape when possible. Store the information at the office or in a safe deposit box.
• Ask if your policy covers the value (replacement cost less depreciation) or replacement cost.
• Is it worth picking up riders on special items?
• Do you need flood insurance? Contact your local emergency management office, building department or floodplain management office for information. You can also visit your town or city hall department that has access to flood maps or order a map for a fee from FEMA at 1-800-358-9616 or www.fema.gov. Different areas have different flood risks. The zone you live in will determine if you need flood insurance and if so, the related cost.
• Do you require a windstorm insurance policy? After a Hurricane
• Stay tuned to WSAV Storm Team 3 for updates and instructions.
• Take photos of damaged areas and possessions.
• Make temporary repairs to protect your home or property from further damage. Cover holes in the roof or walls with plywood and use heavy-duty plastic to cover broken windows.
• If you can’t make repairs yourself, check the contractor’s references with your insurance agent, chamber of commerce or Better Business Bureau.
• Get an estimate first and discuss payment terms. Be sure to receive a receipt for the labor and materials.
• Keep records, bills and paid invoices until your insurance representative visits.
• If damage is of sufficient magnitude and severity, federal disaster assistance may be available.

Filing a Claim
• Notify your agent as soon as possible. Give an address and phone number where you can be reached if you have vacated your home.
• Present your photos and inventory to help your adjuster assess the damage.
• Be patient. Cases are expedited based on severity or hardship.