Storm Season Insurance Checklist: Be Ready Before It Hits
Every year, storm season sweeps in with little warning — catching homeowners and business owners off guard. And when you're unprepared, that often leads to costly repairs, insurance claim surprises, and a lot of unnecessary stress. At Michael J Clifford Insurance Services ~ With APPS Shirreff Insurance Services, we believe in preparation, not panic. Let’s walk through how you can storm-proof your insurance coverage, so you're not left picking up the pieces later.
🌧️ Flood Insurance: Do You Really Need It?
Here’s the thing — most standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage, even if that flood is caused by a major storm. If you live in a high- or moderate-risk area (and let’s be honest, that covers a lot more ground than people realize), adding a separate flood policy is not just smart — it’s essential.
Flood insurance can cover everything from soaked flooring and ruined furniture to major structural damage. It's a lifeline when water rises. Not sure if you’re in a risk zone? Let us check it for you.
💨 Wind & Hail Coverage: What’s Really Covered?
Wind and hail damage are among the most common claims filed during storm season — especially when it comes to roofs. But here’s the catch: many policies include special deductibles or exclusions for wind and hail damage. That means if a big storm comes through and tears shingles off your roof, you could be on the hook for more than you expected.
Take a few minutes this week to review your policy. Or better yet, let us do it for you. We’ll help you make sure your coverage is solid, so the next windstorm doesn’t blow your finances away.
📸 Home & Office Inventory: Quick, Easy, and Powerful
Imagine you had to file a claim tomorrow. Could you list everything in your home or office off the top of your head? Probably not — and that’s normal. A current inventory can make the claims process smoother and faster, helping you recover what you’ve lost.
All you need is your phone. Walk through each room, snap some photos or shoot a quick video. Save it to the cloud or email it to Michael J Clifford Insurance Services ~ With APPS Shirreff Insurance Services and we’ll store it securely on file for you. That 10-minute task could save you thousands.
⚠️ Business Interruption Insurance: A Lifesaver for Local Businesses
If you're a business owner, you know that a major storm can do more than just damage your property. It can knock out power, block access to your building, or even halt your operations entirely. That’s where business interruption insurance steps in.
This coverage helps replace lost income during the downtime, keeping your business afloat while you repair and rebuild. Not sure if your policy includes it — or if it’s enough? We can help you review and adjust it as needed.
✅ Policy Review: Let’s Spot Gaps Before the Storm Does
Storm season is unpredictable. Your insurance coverage shouldn’t be. At Michael J Clifford Insurance Services ~ With APPS Shirreff Insurance Services, we offer free, no-obligation policy reviews to help you find hidden gaps, fix them, and ensure your plan is storm-proof.
Plus, a quick review might even uncover discounts or savings you didn’t know you qualified for. It’s a win-win: more peace of mind, and potentially more money in your pocket.
📊 Storm Risks by the Numbers
According to FEMA and insurance industry reports, here's a look at why preparation is critical:
| Risk | Average Cost of Damage | Covered by Standard Policy? |
|---|---|---|
| Flooding (Residential) | $40,000+ | No |
| Wind/Hail Roof Damage | $10,000–$30,000 | Yes, with limits |
| Business Interruption | $20,000+/month | Optional |
| Personal Property Loss | $5,000–$50,000 | Yes, with inventory |
📞 Let’s Talk — Before the Clouds Roll In
We get it — insurance isn’t always the most exciting topic. But protecting your home, your business, and your peace of mind? That’s worth a 10-minute conversation.
Call us today at 253-858-9879. No pressure, just friendly help from your local insurance pros.
💡 Final Thoughts
Storms may be unpredictable — but your insurance coverage doesn’t have to be. A little preparation today can make all the difference tomorrow. Whether you need flood insurance, roof protection, or business coverage, Michael J Clifford Insurance Services ~ With APPS Shirreff Insurance Services is here to help.
Let’s make sure that when the wind blows, you’re standing strong. Ready to start? We’re just a call or click away.