Insurance worries? Here’s how to prepare

The Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) has a handy resource guide regarding the most commonly asked questions about insurance and hurricanes. Check the department website for tips on making the most of your insurance coverage: bit.ly/43bEAnP.

Check up on your insurance coverages

Named storm and hurricane deductibles typically run 2% to 5% of the insured property value. If a home has an insured value of $200,000 with a 5% hurricane deductible, the policyholder would pay $10,000 out of pocket before insurance coverage took effect.

Get flood insurance

Flood damage resulting from heavy rain or storm surge is excluded from most policies, and there is typically a 30-day waiting period before a flood insurance policy takes effect. For information on a National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policy, you can contact your agent or visit www.floodsmart.gov. You can search for an agent on the LDI website www.ldi.la.gov/findagent.

Update your home inventory

You can use your phone to take pictures or video of the items in your home. Having a record of your possessions will make the claims process easier in the event of property damage or loss. Include identifying information such as brand name and serial number. The NAIC Home Inventory App makes it easy for you to create a record of your belongings. The app allows users to upload and export photos, find disaster preparation advice and review information about filing a claim. The NAIC Home Inventory App is available for download in the App Store and Google Play.

Have copies of your policies and your agent’s contact information ready to go

In case of an emergency evacuation, you will want to have copies of your family’s essential documents and your agent’s contact information to enable you to start the claims process as soon as possible.

About Deductibles

One strategy that coastal insurers have adopted to limit their exposure is the use of wind and hail; named storm; and hurricane deductibles. At least 19 states and the District of Columbia have hurricane deductibles. Insurers use percentage deductibles that are based on a home value - so if a home is insured for $200,000 and has a 5% deductible, the first $10,000 must be paid out of pocket by the policyholder. Details of these deductibles are listed on the declarations page of a policy.

About Flood Insurance

Since flood damage is not covered under homeowners policies, purchasing a separate flood insurance policy can help homeowners and commercial interests protect their homes and businesses. Although the LDI can answer basic questions about flood insurance, the Department does not regulate the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), approve its rates or changes or have any authority over the program. However, the LDI does monitor how these changes impact policyholders in the state. For more information on the NFIP, visit their website or call 1-800-427-2419. For more information on private flood insurance, visit bit.ly/43EGCg9.

 

Hurricanes/Insurance:
bit.ly/43bEAnP