HURRICANE SEASON
Each year, the country is hit with hurricanes, tornadoes, hailstorms, super storms, flooding, and more. With hurricane season running from June 1st to November 30th, coastal and inland region homeowners must prepare for potential storms annually. Of course, you have insurance to help you recover. But knowing and doing a few things now—while the weather’s fair—can help you and your family stay safe and help you protect your property if the unexpected happens:
• Stock up on important items such as canned goods, water, pet food, paper goods, flashlights & batteries with a battery-operated radio.
• Clean up around your property! Trim trees and shrubs, store outside items such as grills, boats, trailers securely – and yes storing the lawn furniture in the pool can work (if it’s rust proof!)
• Be sure all important documents are stored in a waterproof safe, in the cloud, or in a secure portal online. These documents should include your Homeowners Insurance policy, survey, marriage license, wills, social security card, title policy, etc.
• Consider Flood Insurance, even if you are not in a flood zone. Be sure to purchase early – it can take 30+ days for the insurance company to finalize your policy. Take photos of the property, inside and out, prior to the storm.
We’ve created a downloadable PDF of our tips for you and your clients. For resources by county on flood and evacuation zones, visit www.floridadisaster.org/knowyourzone.
What if you’re involved in a real estate transaction during hurricane season? Consider signing contracts and binding your insurance earlier than normal, and know your closings options in case of evacuation. Our options include, but are not limited to, Remote Online Notarization (RON), Mobile Notary services at your location, or a Traditional Closing (in-person at the office).
For more information reach out to your account executive or contact one of our locations: https://smart-title.com/locations/
