Hurricane Season is Here - Are you ready?

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 until November 30th and 2010 is forecast to be a very active year. Experts are predicting 18 named storms with 10 hurricanes and 5 of them major hurricanes at a category 3 or higher. According to the Department of Atmospheric Science at Colorado State University, there is a 76% chance that a major hurricane will hit somewhere along the US coast and a 51% chance that it will hit somewhere along the east coast of the US.

So, what can you do to prepare? For starters, visit the 2010 South Carolina Hurricane Guide. It contains a wealth of information about being prepared in the event a hurricane comes to your area.  As you know, keeping you and your family safe is the most important thing.

Keeping your property safe and secure is probably the second most important thing. Here are a few things to think about:

1. Make sure you have insurance coverage on your property. Meaning...make sure that your policy is paid and is active. Once a storm is approaching, you will not be able to buy Wind and Hail Insurance or homeowners insurance that provides it. If your premiums are paid by your mortgage company, please don't assume that they will pay them correctly or on time. Verify with your agent that your policy has been paid.
2. Review your SC homeowners insurance coverage yearly with your agent to make sure that you have enough coverage and the correct type of coverage.
3. Understand how your deductible works. If you live near the coast, most companies have a much higher deductible for damage done by wind or tropical cyclone. Know your policy so you won't be caught off guard in the event of a loss.
4. Consider buying flood insurance. A loss from flood is NOT covered on your regular homeowners policy. So, if there is a possibility that your property could be flooded, buy a flood insurance policy. FEMA Flood insurance is inexpensive and can be quoted and written very quickly. However, there is a 30-day waiting period for the initial purchase of a flood policy so buy it before you need it.

Remember...We are here to help, so give us a call. If you currently have your insurance with us or not, we will be happy to review your policy and make sure it is what you need.



Here's a couple more links that could prove useful...

Tree Services in Myrtle Beach (Storm Damage)
Swimming Pool Replastering in Myrtle Beach
Home Security Company in Myrtle Beach
Florida Condo Insurance