Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey reminds North Carolina residents to keep their guard up as we mark the second anniversary of Hurricane Helene.
“This hurricane season has been mild compared to most,” Commissioner Causey said. “As we learned from Helene two years ago, it only takes one storm to cause catastrophic damage to our state.”
Hurricane season continues through Nov. 30. Commissioner Causey urged North Carolinians that preparation is the key to surviving a storm and minimizing its effects.
“Securing your home and property is critical to minimizing damage,” Commissioner Causey said. “It’s also important to make sure you protect your property with adequate insurance.”
Commissioner Causey suggested that North Carolina residents contact their insurance agent to make sure they have the insurance coverage they need. He offered these tips:
- Standard homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover damage from flooding, although mobile homeowners’ and automobile insurance policies that include comprehensive coverage do cover flood damage. Most hurricane fatalities and property damage are caused by water.
- The National Flood Insurance Program has a 30-day waiting period before coverage kicks in. Don’t wait until a named storm is headed our way to get your flood insurance.
- Renters should consider purchasing their own renters’ insurance and flood policies. The landlord’s insurance will not cover renters’ losses.
“There’s no substitute for being prepared,” Commissioner Causey said.
For more information regarding storm preparation, please visit www.ncdoi.gov/disaster. You may also call 855-408-1212 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.