Navigating insurance policies can be as tricky as predicting Oklahoma’s weather. Understanding and preparing your insurance coverage becomes paramount as we approach storm season.

Insurance is required for your home, but understanding how it works is invaluable! This checklist should help guide you to the right things to do to prepare for storm season, but if you have specific questions about your coverage or policy, you should speak to your insurance agent.

Comprehensive coverage

One of the most common pitfalls homeowners face post-storm is discovering that their policy doesn’t cover certain types of damage or that the coverage limits are insufficient for the repairs needed. This is often due to a lack of clarity between Actual Cash Value (ACV) and Replacement Cost Value (RCV) in policies.

ACV takes depreciation into account, potentially leaving you with less than the actual cost to repair or replace damaged items. Understanding these terms and ensuring your policy offers the protection level you expect is crucial.

Annual check-ins

Annual insurance checkups are as essential as any routine home maintenance. These checkups are an opportunity to review any changes in your home’s value or condition that might affect your coverage needs.

Perhaps you’ve added a room, upgraded your roof, or made other improvements; your policy should reflect that change to ensure full coverage. Additionally, this checkup allows you to compare rates and coverage options from different insurers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Being proactive

Beyond the confines of your policy, proactive measures to protect your home can mitigate the risk of damage and simplify the claims process, should you need to file one. Regular home maintenance, especially of your roof and drainage systems, can prevent issues not covered by insurance. Keeping detailed records of your home’s condition and any upgrades or repairs can be invaluable in documenting claims for your insurer.

As we approach storm season, your preparedness can make all the difference. With a comprehensive understanding of your insurance coverage and proactive home maintenance, you’re not just preparing for the worst; you’re ensuring that you and your home can weather any storm confidently.