As we mark the beginning of hurricane season on Saturday, you should know last year was a historic year for insurance payouts.
Twenty-eight separate events cost at least $1 billion.
Insurance fraud can add millions of dollars to what is paid out by insurers, leading to higher premiums for all of us.
We’ve spent weeks helping you prepare in case a storm threatens our area in part because when a storm hits it can feel chaotic as you try to get supplies or clean up after it rolls through.
David J. Glawe, the president and CEO of the National Insurance Crime Bureau, wants you to beware of anyone who knocks on your door after a storm.
MORE: Download & Save The Weather Authority’s Hurricane Survival Guide
“When people knock on your door or they solicit you by email or by phone, turn them away,” Glawe said. “Work with your insurance carrier to go through the process of always getting three bids.”
He also said to be wary of anyone who asks for a lot of money upfront.
“Asking for cash up front or large down payments, reputable contractors will not do that. They’ll ask for a small down payment, usually less than 5% of the contract,” Glawe said. “If your spidey-sense is going off or you feel comfortable, walk away. Go to someone else.”
With hurricane season starting Saturday, now’s the time to make sure you have everything in order in case a storm comes our way. That includes safeguarding important documents and ensuring you have the proper coverage if something happens.
“Make sure your policy is up to date, that it covers the replacement value of your home today,” Glawe said. “You need to do that now because you’re not going to be covered after the event.”
If you keep paper copies of your insurance documents, put them in a safety deposit box, Glawe said.
“Preparation is key before an event,” he said.
You should also be sure to have your hurricane kit stocked and ready. You can save money building it with Florida’s disaster supplies sales tax holiday that begins Saturday. Here are the eligible items.