6 Tips to Stay Ahead of Natural Disasters

Are you worried about a natural disaster? As flooding, hurricanes, and wildfires become more common throughout the world, it’s important to be prepared. Not only do you need an evacuation preparedness plan, you should also be prepared to deal with your insurance company after a loss. With these tips, you’ll be ready when disaster strikes.

1) Learn Who Can Help You File an Insurance Claim

You don’t have to go it alone when you file your claim in the wake of a natural disaster. You have a couple of options for help. Either a public adjuster or a legal professional such as a fire insurance lawyer can help you. But what is the difference between an adjuster and a lawyer?

A lawyer can do all of the things that a public adjuster can, such as negotiating with the insurer and providing their own appraisals for structural damage or lost contents in order to challenge the insurer. However, a lawyer also brings an enhanced understanding of contract law and can continue to help you if your claim enters into legal territory.

2) Create a Home Inventory

Should your home be lost due to a wildfire or another disaster, you will have to compile a complete list of all of your belongings. It will be challenging to remember everything. Relying on memory alone means you’ll likely forget some items. If you forget something, you will miss out on compensation for it. Some good tips include asking family members and using photos, but the best thing you can do is be prepared ahead of time.

Prepare a home inventory in advance using software or taking photos and videos, as well as holding onto receipts. When you already have an up-to-date list of your belongings, it will be much easier to complete a content insurance claim.

3) Keep Up Good Home Maintenance

An old, neglected roof is going to be much more likely to suffer damage from high winds, heavy rainfall, or even wildfire. You may want to upgrade to a fire-resistant roof and siding if you live in an area that’s prone to wildfires (or becoming prone, as the severity and reach of these disasters are growing). If such features are not already required by insurers, you may even be able to see your premiums go down as the risk of loss decreases.

Importantly, if you neglect home maintenance, it is possible that your insurer may completely deny your claim, and you could be left with little recourse.

4) Prepare an Emergency Kit

Have an emergency kit stored somewhere convenient, such as the front door closet or in the garage. Here are some of the things your kit should include:

• Face masks to protect from smoke;
• Non-perishable food and water;
• Change of clothes;
• Cash and/or an emergency credit card;
• A spare phone charger;
• A road map;
• Sanitation supplies;
• Flashlight;
• Personal documentation such as ID.
• Check with local authorities for a complete list.

5) Know Where to Go

Make sure you have a plan in case a mass evacuation order is issued. Do you have family nearby, but far enough away that they may be unaffected by the same disaster? What means of transportation do you have to get there? Decide on a safe place to go in case you have to leave home, preferably a place where your family feels comfortable and you have the support of family or friends. Be sure to listen to emergency officials regarding routes and timelines.

6) File Your Claim Promptly

In the wake of a disaster or a loss, be sure to contact your insurer quickly – as soon as you’re aware of the loss. Living in an area prone to natural disasters, you may want to look into Mass Evacuation coverage. This is coverage that helps you cover the costs of leaving your home during a mass evacuation order, such as gas, hotel stays, etc.

With these tips, you’ll be ready no matter what happens.