INSURANCE INFORMATION INSTITUTE
Florida Press Office:听 (813) 480-6446, lynnem@iii.org
New York Press Office: (212) 346-5500, media@iii.org
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TAMPA, Florida, June 26, 2012 鈥 Much of Florida has been drenched by Tropical Storm Debby, and as the storm is predicted to hang around through the weekend, residents may be checking their insurance policies. The
Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) has detailed some frequently asked questions about storm damage, along with additional resources explaining insurance basics.
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I have damage from the storm. What should I do first?
Take reasonable steps to protect your property from further damage by making temporary repairs, and contact your insurance company as soon as possible to let them know the extent of the damage. Save receipts for any out-of-pocket costs and submit them to your insurance company because temporary repairs are part of the total claims settlement.
Am I covered if the roof leaks and damages my furnishings?
Yes, damage to the contents of your home is covered if you have purchased it as part of your policy. A standard homeowners policy offer four essential types of coverage: For the structure of your home, your belongings, liability protection and additional living expenses if you are temporarily unable to live in your home.
We have minor damage. Should I file a claim?
Knowing your deductible amount will help you decide. Check the Declaration Page of your home and auto policy. It lists the deductible you have chosen. If the damage is estimated to be under or slightly over the deductible amount, you may decide to pay to repair the damage on your own. Keep in mind that insurance is to protect you from financial disaster, not to pay for relatively small expenses.
听Does the hurricane deductible apply to storm damage from Debby?
No. The hurricane deductible in Florida only applies to property damage from a named hurricane, not a tropical storm. The deductible that applies is listed on your Declarations Page as 鈥淎ll Other Perils.鈥 听
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Will my insurance cover flood damage to my home or car?
Most standard homeowners policies do not cover flood damage. A separate policy is required from the 听and from some private insurance companies. There is a 30-day waiting period before coverage takes effect. If you have comprehensive auto insurance coverage, flood damage is covered.
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Insurance Information Institute, 4775 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL 33617, (813) 480-6446
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