Are You Properly Insured for a Natural Disaster?

How to Prepare Your Insurance Coverage Before Disaster Strikes

With natural disasters on the rise—from hurricanes and floods to wildfires and winter storms—it’s critical to make sure your insurance coverage is ready before the unexpected happens. Follow these four essential steps to assess and strengthen your protection:

Step 1: Review Your Current Policy
Many homeowners assume they’re covered for all natural disasters, but standard policies often exclude floods, earthquakes, and sump pump backups. Contact your account manager to clarify what your policy includes—and what it doesn’t.

Step 2: Evaluate Your Risk Based on Location
Where you live determines your exposure to specific threats. In New York, that may include flooding, snowstorms, and even earthquakes. Use FEMA’s flood maps and local emergency planning tools to understand your area’s vulnerabilities.

Step 3: Add Supplemental Coverage if Needed
If your current policy lacks protection for certain risks, consider these additions:

• Flood Insurance (through NFIP or private carriers)

• Sump Pump Backup Coverage

• Earthquake Insurance

These can usually be added as separate policies or endorsements.

Step 4: Create a Home Inventory
After a disaster, a home inventory can make filing a claim faster and more accurate. Take photos or videos of your belongings, save receipts, and store this information in a secure place. Need help getting started? Your account manager can recommend easy-to-use templates.

These proactive steps can help you avoid costly surprises and ensure you’re financially protected if disaster strikes.