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NOAA has increased its prediction for the ongoing 2023 Atlantic hurricane season to an above-normal level of activity. Record-warm Atlantic sea surface temperatures are likely to counterbalance the ongoing El Nino event. Scientists are predicting 14-21 named tropical storms in the Atlantic hurricane basin and 6-11 hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or greater). Of those, 2-5 of those could turn into major hurricanes, category three or higher. Here at NNINS, we never underestimate the possible impact any big storm can have on Virginians, and for good reason. We know from experience it only takes ONE of these tropical cyclones to devastate property and result in costly wind damage and flooding.
How to Protect Your Home From a Hurricane
So how can you protect and preserve your home? You hope for the best and plan for the worst. We can help you know how best to shield your home from the top four areas of risk for hurricane damage. Asking and answering these questions could save you a ton of heartache for whatever is in store for the commonwealth this Atlantic Hurricane Season.
1. Will your roof protect everything under it?
The #1 preemptive weapon in your home’s arsenal is its roof. It’s also the most susceptible to costly damage. We can’t emphasize enough how important it is to maintain your roof with an annual professional inspection, especially if your roof needs to be replaced. Virginia has already experienced its share of wild weather. Get an inspection now or anytime you suspect damage.
2. Are your gutters and downspouts clean?
Your gutters and downspouts are next in line for protecting your home in stormy weather. They need to drive all that rainwater down and away from your foundation. They can’t do it if they’re full of debris from the previous seasons. Annual maintenance of gutters is crucial to waterproofing your home during extreme rainfall.
3. When was the last time you took a good look at your trees?
Trees can cause significant damage to homes and property. While not all damage can be prevented, it's a good idea to annually check the health of any trees in your yard, especially those close to your home or driveway. Also, don't forget to do regular maintenance like trimming dead and overhanging branches and fertilizing. Make sure to research the types of trees before planting. If you're not convinced, check out how the wind took its toll on the Shurtleff's trees in Charlottesville.
4. Do you have the right home insurance coverage?
When was the last time you updated your homeowners insurance policy? The important thing is to speak to your local insurance agent to make sure you are sufficiently covered for hurricane season, especially if you’ve done anything to your home that adds value. Ask for an insurance checkup to make sure you have enough homeowners insurance to repair or even replace your home in a worst-case scenario.
Remember, standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover home flooding. Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, you’ll need a separate policy for flooding. It’s available through FEMA's flood program. Act now- flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period. Don't forget about protecting your car. The good news is comprehensive car insurance does cover flooding. There is also Inland Flood Coverage which provides protection for homeowners and renters who may not be in a high-risk flood zone but who could experience flash floods or other unexpected sudden flooding.
Check out our frequently asked questions for hurricanes as well as home and car insurance for more information about what is covered under your policy.
Our agents are right here and ready to help!
Let’s hope for a low-impact hurricane season for Virginia, but prepare for whatever comes. Start by addressing these four critical issues. Then protect your family and property; have a home inventory and check out our Virginia Hurricane Preparedness Guide. And let us know if we can be of service to you or provide a homeowners insurance quote. We are a Virginia-only insurer by choice. We specialize in preserving and protecting the things Virginians value most.
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THE NORTHERN NECK INSURANCE INTEGRITY PROMISE — We pledge to provide straight talk and good counsel from our NNINS Virginia insurance experts through our blog. While we hope you find this to be a helpful source of information, it does not replace the guidance of a licensed insurance professional, nor does it modify the terms of your Northern Neck Insurance policy in any way. All insurance products are governed by the terms in the applicable insurance policy.
