When hurricanes arrive in Florida, every part of the state is at risk. Homes in other parts of the country not expecting powerful storms might get blown over by a powerful hurricane, but Florida homes are typically built to withstand high winds and rain better. However, this added protection needs to be cared for, and your house might be at risk if you fail to proactively repair issues as they arise. Risks don’t only come from the storm itself; insurance companies can be just as devastating if they learn hurricane damage to your house was exacerbated by a lack of home repairs.
The Risks of Hurricanes to Florida Homes
Florida’s hurricane season, which runs from June to November, is a well-known and expected part of living in the state. Still, this familiarity shouldn’t be used to downplay hurricanes, which can cause extensive damage through high winds, heavy rains, and flooding. Some Florida residents get complacent after years of luck in dodging hurricane damage, but you never know which year will bring disaster to your area.
Roof damage is one of the most common issues, with strong winds capable of tearing off shingles or even entire roof sections. Flooding can impact your home’s foundation, walls, and electrical systems. Wind damage can also break windows, damage siding, and turn outdoor items into dangerous projectiles. Living in Florida means understanding that these risks are always present, even if your home dodged the worst of hurricanes in years past.
Insurance Claim Denials Due to Lack of Home Repairs
Insurance companies evaluate claims based on the condition of your home at the time of the damage and the preventative measures you have taken. One of the primary reasons for Florida home insurance claim denials is the presence of pre-existing damage that was not addressed before the hurricane. Insurers expect homeowners to maintain their properties and perform necessary home repairs to prevent further damage. If you fail to address these issues, your insurer might deny your claim, arguing that the damage was due to neglect rather than the hurricane itself.
Many insurance policies include clauses that mandate specific actions, such as reinforcing your roof, installing storm shutters, or securing outdoor items. Neglecting these requirements can result in your insurer denying your claim, but as opposed to the previous reason, it can be less subjective and harder to argue against. If a policy clearly requires something, you usually have to abide by the rules if you want to make a claim.
The Need for Pre-Season Home Repairs and Additional Benefits
Now that we know how a lack of repairs can lead to insurance claim denials, let’s examine why repairing your home before a hurricane can be beneficial instead of just something providers require.
First and foremost, letting your home face the elements with leaky windows, holes in the roof, and heavy furniture ready to be used as projectiles introduces numerous safety risks. If you are sheltering in place during a hurricane, you should never put yourself and your family at greater risk by failing to protect against hurricane damage. Even if you leave during the storm’s impact, returning to a house that may have sustained internal damage means you are always gambling until these issues become known and threaten everyone’s safety.
Beyond protecting your home and enhancing safety, pre-season repairs offer several additional benefits relating to your policy. One significant advantage of repairs is the potential for lower insurance premiums. Insurance companies often reward proactive homeowners who take steps to mitigate damage risks, considering their properties less of a risk. This can result in reduced insurance costs, more favorable policy terms, and a better relationship with the company. Additionally, making necessary repairs can increase your coverage options, ensuring that you have adequate protection in place for the next hurricane season.
Everyone wins when you take proactive action to repair your house and protect it from further damage. You can save money, insurers can take on lower risk, and no one has to have added worry about your family’s safety during a particularly nasty hurricane. If you are seeking a new home insurance plan before the hurricane season, contact Anderson & Associates today to shop for policies and protect your home.
