As Hawaii residents prepare for severe weather, it is essential to ensure that their insurance policies are up to date and comprehensive. Waiting until a storm is imminent may be too late to make necessary adjustments to coverage. Homeowners should take proactive steps to review their standard home insurance policies and consider adding additional coverage, such as flood insurance, to protect their property and belongings.
According to DTRIC Insurance Vice President Mike Mishima, one crucial step in preparing for severe weather is to take inventory of belongings and document what is covered by insurance. Mishima recommends going room by room, taking photos and videos of items, and being specific about details such as make and model for appliances. This detailed documentation will be invaluable in the event of damage and when filing a claim with insurance companies.
In the event of storm damage, it is important to document the extent of the destruction before beginning cleanup efforts. Mishima emphasizes the importance of photographs as evidence for insurance claims processing. Insurance companies will require documentation to assess the damage and determine coverage, making thorough documentation essential for a smooth claims process.
If a storm is already approaching, it may be too late to make changes to insurance policies. Some insurance companies may impose a moratorium on policy changes once a watch or warning is issued, limiting the ability to adjust coverage. Mishima advises homeowners to prepare for hurricane season by reviewing their policies in advance, ensuring adequate coverage for both property and personal belongings.
In addition to reviewing insurance policies, Mishima recommends safeguarding important documents in secure, water-tight storage. Birth certificates, social security cards, trust documents, and other irreplaceable items should be protected from potential storm damage. Scanning and storing these documents digitally can provide an additional layer of protection in case of loss or damage.
In the event of storm damage, homeowners should promptly contact their insurance company to begin the claims process. Timely communication with insurers can help expedite the assessment and resolution of claims, ensuring that homeowners receive the support they need to recover from the impact of severe weather.
As Hawaii residents prepare for severe weather, taking proactive steps to review and update insurance policies can provide peace of mind and financial protection in the event of storm damage. By following the advice of insurance experts like Mike Mishima, homeowners can better prepare for the uncertainties of hurricane season and safeguard their property and belongings.