Checkup May Be Due for Your House & Your Insurance

The storm front that brought pummeling rain and hail to Southern California Wednesday should serve as a warning to homeowners to prepare for a wet winter. Both your home and your homeowner’s insurance may need a checkup.

The Insurance Information Network of California encourages consumers to make sure that their home is ready for a rough winter. By taking a few precautions now, homeowners may not only avoid costly repairs, but also be fiscally prepared for any storm damage.

Cars, homes and businesses sustained damage in Wednesday’s powerful storm, which dumped foot-deep hail in Los Angeles to up five inches of rain in other areas.

Hail and flood damage to cars is covered under the comprehensive coverage of the auto insurance policy, while damage from traffic accidents would be covered under collision coverage.

Damage to homes from hail or wind-driven rain is typically covered under a homeowners’ policy, however, damage from flooding is available only through the federal National Flood Insurance Program.

Though flood insurance is not included in a standard homeowner’s policy, it can be purchased through your insurance agent or directly from the NFIP at (800) 427-4661. The average annual premium is less than $400. While flood insurance can be purchased at any time, homeowners are cautioned that there is a 30-day waiting period before the coverage takes effect.

Before the next rain, homeowners should prepare their property for wet conditions and their insurance for all contingencies.

• Inspect the trees on your property. Remove or cut back any branches that are rotted or could fall on your house.
• Inspect your roof for leaks and clean out its gutters and downspouts of any debris.
• Learn how to drain your swimming pool, and be prepared to reduce its water level as storms approach. Water damage from overflowing pools is not covered in your homeowner’s policy.
• Take a look at any storm drains located on the street near your home. If they appear clogged or congested, report them immediately to your city's public works department.
• Take a look at any storm drains located on the street near your home. If they appear clogged or congested, report them immediately to your city's public works department.
• Prepare a home inventory and consult with your insurance agent to be certain that your insurance limits match your insurance needs.

The Insurance Information Network of California is a nonprofit, non-lobbying communications association representing the property/casualty insurance industry. This and other consumer insurance information is available on the IINC web site at www.iinc.org.