Many people each year submit a claim for storm damage and later find out they are not protected.

People living in the U.S. deal with the threat of damaging winds, pelting hail, and roaring flood waters, causing millions of dollars in damage to property across the country. Insurance can offer financial protection against most storm damage, however be sure to have the proper insurance in the right amounts.

Find out what storm damage is covered in your insurance policy and make adjustments before the storm. The problem is when people fail to make proper insurance arrangements for themselves or their property before a storm hits.

If you live in an area that is subjected to this type of risk you might consider purchasing some additional coverage.

Consider buying federal flood insurance if damage from rising water is possible where you live. Homeowners, farm and ranch, renters, and condominium, policies DO NOT cover damage caused by rising waters. Find out more about flood insurance from www.floodsmart.gov

Ways you could Lower Your Insurance Costs



Shop Around....States often make information available on the rates charged by major insurers and many states provide the number of consumer complaints each company receives.


Raise Your Deductible....Remember, your insurance policy may have a separate deductible for certain kinds of damage. Most insurance companies recommend a deductible of at least $500. If you can afford to raise your deductible to $1,000, you may save as much as 25 percent.


Don't confuse what you paid for your house with rebuilding costs....Your land isn't at risk from theft, windstorm, or other perils covered in your homeowners policy. So don't include it's value when deciding how much homeowners insurance to buy.


Buy your home and auto policies from the same insurer...Companies that sell homeowners, auto and liability coverage will give a discount off your premium if you buy two or more policies from them. Be sure the combined cost is lower than buying the different coverage's from different companies.


Make your home more disaster resistant....You could save on your premiums by adding storm shutters, reinforcing your roof or buying stronger roofing materials.


Improve your home security....Before you buy a system, find out what kind your insurer recommends and how much you'd save on premiums.


Seek out other discounts....Your age or place of employment could save you some money, be sure to ask.


Maintain a good credit record.... Insurers are using your credit information to price homeowners insurance policies.


Review your policy once a year....You want your policy to cover any major purchases or additions to your home. But you don't want to spend money for coverage you don't need.