TAMPA, FLA - Spring cleaning isn’t just for your closet!

Too often we purchase our homeowners insurance and never think about it until a year has passed and we’re up for our renewal. While you should ensure that you’re purchasing proper (and the right) coverage, it’s best to check into your policy a few times throughout the year. 

“But why would I do that?” you ask?

That’s a great question! We’ve shared previous blogs highlighting the importance of updating your homeowner’s insurance {insert recent home ins blog} (like updating your roof if it’s older than 15 years) and why not during the Springtime? Read along to learn about what you should be aware of for your different insurance policies this Spring. 

Flooding & Hail

Us Floridians know that from late March to May we can expect showers and thunderstorms at any time of the day. And with rain may come flooding, and flooding is not covered on a homeowners insurance policy.

“It is important for all homeowners to remember the difference between flood damage and water damage. While flood damage is caused by widespread rain or flooding bodies of water, regular water damage comes from broken pipes, roof leaks and similar home-related problems. A home insurance policy covers water damage but not flooding.” (my insurance partner)

It’s best to find out what flood zone your home is in and decide if a flood policy is right for you. As many insurance agents would agree, if you live in Florida you should definitely consider buying a flood insurance policy. 

But wait, there’s more!

While hail isn’t as common in Florida, it does still happen to cause some damage every now and then. These balls of ice can do everything from denting a car, breaking a window, and even cutting through your pool’s net cover. 

“Damage to the roof is usually covered under a home insurance policy. If the hail breaks a window and causes rain to leak into the home, the broken window and resulting water damage are both usually covered as well. Auto owners should review their coverage to find out if they are covered for hail damage.” (my insurance partner)

Potholes

Ever noticed how random potholes seem to pop up right around Springtime? We did too!

Potholes are more common during Spring because of the changing temperatures that cause cracks in roads to tighten and expand as the weather becomes warmer. As these cracks expand they create large holes, and we now call them potholes.

“These can ruin tires and damage the wheels on some cars. Drivers who have collision insurance are usually covered for pothole damage.” (my insurance partner)

While it is difficult to avoid every pothole you come across, revisit your auto insurance policy and make sure you do have roadside assistance or even a rental reimbursement just in case something were to happen. 

In addition to roads, driveways can also be affected by changing weather temperatures. Call your homeowners insurance agent and ask if you’d be covered for driveway cracks. 

As the world evolves and rotates, anything can happen. We need to take certain steps to protect the important things in our lives because of the unknown. But that doesn’t have to stop us from living our lives. Staying current with your different insurance policies will guarantee that you’re covered in the event of any kind of setback. Call your agent at any time and ask for an insurance review. You’ll be happy you did.

In addition to the few scenarios we’ve mentioned, we’ve added a few questions to ask yourself regarding your insurance:

• Is my home covered for its rebuilding cost? Do I even know how much it would cost to rebuild my home?

• Do I have proper coverage for my valuables?

• Do I have comprehensive and collision on my car? Do I need comprehensive and collision on my car?

• Do I carry enough liability insurance to protect my assets?

• I’m going on a big trip at the end of the year, should I buy travel insurance?

• While I’m on vacation, should I rent my house out? Does my current homeowners policy have the same coverage if I decide to rent?