Virginians urged to review insurance coverage during National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month, and with nearly three months left in the Atlantic hurricane season, the Virginia State Corporation Commission’s Bureau of Insurance is reminding Virginians to take steps now to protect their families and property.

“Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect yourself and your property from a hurricane or other disaster,” said Virginia Insurance Commissioner Scott A. White. “Make sure your insurance coverage is up to date so you can minimize financial damage. Review your insurance policies and know what is – and is not – covered.”

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, with late August through early October often bringing the most dangerous storms. Even inland areas far from the coast can experience flooding, strong winds, and heavy rains from tropical systems. Once a storm forms, finding new coverage may not be possible until the threat passes.

The bureau stressed that many homeowners, renters, and commercial insurance policies do not cover flooding or storm surge. That protection is available through the National Flood Insurance Program but typically requires a 30-day waiting period before coverage takes effect.

Virginians are also encouraged to:

• check to see whether their homeowners policies carry a special deductible for wind or hurricane losses, which may be applied separately from the standard deductible;

• ask whether their policies covers sewer backup, which usually requires added coverage;

• confirm that vehicles are protected under comprehensive auto coverage for flood or wind damage.

Creating a home inventory with photos, videos, and serial numbers can help speed claims and reduce stress after a disaster. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners offers a free app, NAIC Home Inventory, to make the process easier.

If damage occurs, officials recommend contacting your insurance company quickly, making emergency repairs to prevent further harm, and documenting all losses with photos and receipts.

The Bureau of Insurance provides free guides for homeowners and business owners with disaster-readiness tips, available on the SCC website. Staff are also available to answer questions at 1-877-310-6560 or (804) 371-9185.

For additional preparedness resources, residents can visit the Virginia Department of Emergency Management website.