Everyone wants to be ready for a disaster.
Five easy ways to get started:
- Install a weather app on your phone. Turn on notifications or check it before bad weather to know what’s heading your way.
- Make a list or inventory of the stuff in your house. Email it to yourself or keep it online. Include item model and serial numbers. Take photos or videos of each room in your house, including closets and drawers. When you need to file a claim, the list and photos will help.
- Pack a “go kit” of supplies you can take with you if you need to leave in a hurry. Include water, food, clothes, chargers, medicines, and pet supplies. Have copies of your home, auto, and health insurance cards.
- Consider buying flood insurance. Most home insurance policies don’t cover flood damage; you’ll need a separate flood policy. Flood policies often have a 30-day waiting period before taking effect.
- Check that your insurance policies are up to date and provide enough coverage. Your coverage limits might be too low if you’ve built onto your house or bought furniture or electronics.
Have a question about insurance? Call the Texas Department of Insurance at 800-252-3439 or visit www.tdi.texas.gov.
These columns by the Texas Department of Insurance are available for use in publications. They may be edited as needed and used without copyright. For questions, contact TDI media relations at 512-676-6595 or MediaRelations@tdi.texas.gov.