If you’ve watched the news recently, you’ve noticed that intense storms are becoming more regular, with some catastrophic results. Whether the issue is the wind damage from a hurricane, water damage due to torrential rains, or the property damage caused by a wildfire, weather-related damage is a growing concern.
The increase in severe weather means it’s imperative that you review your homeowner’s insurance coverages before it’s too late. Ask yourself these three questions to get started:
1. How quickly will your insurer respond in extreme weather?
The true test of any insurance company is how it responds if you have a claim. Know that premium insurance carriers like Chubb are known for responding to claims within 24 hours, and once approved, can issue payment within 48.
2. Is your insurance company financially strong enough to address a catastrophe?
In a major disaster, insurance companies may need to pay many claims at once. Can your insurer handle that? It’s not a question the average consumer knows the answer to, but luckily there’s a group of five independent agencies who rate the financial strength of insurance companies. Make sure to check yours now and see where it ranks.
3. Does your current coverage have a long term premium control strategy?
Insurance isn’t a one-time purchase, but something that you’ll keep as long as you own your home. That’s why it’s important to think long-term about the costs of your premium and deductible. Insurance companies may raise your premium if you make a claim, so you’ll need to calculate whether raising your deductible and paying out-of-pocket more often will be more cost-efficient than a higher annual premium. Your insurance broker can make the best recommendation to fit your needs. Additionally, having a proactive partner like Chubb can help you identify ways to prevent issues from happening in the first place, by suggesting things like a generator purchase or a leak-detection device.
While you can’t control if you’re in the path of a storm, you can control the outcome by making sure you’re properly covered. If something should happen, know that we’ll respond quickly and do what’s right for you whether you need trees removed or a place to stay during repairs.
Learn more about:
- Above-and-beyond flood protection with Chubb Overland Water Coverage.
Guest post by:
Steven Shepard
Founder and CEO, Shepard Insurance Group
Independent insurance agent
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