New York Gov. Cuomo Urges Homeowners to Protect Against Storm Losses
Andrew Cuomo is suggesting that homeowners make the effort now to protect their home if New York were to be hit by any of the 9 to 15 storm the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts for the 2012 Atlantic Hurricane season.
The NOAA says that as many as 3 of those storms are predicted to strengthen hurricane force with top winds of 11 miles per hour or higher. Last Thursday Cuomo said, “New Yorkers need to act now to make sure their homeowners’ policies offer adequate levels of protection against storm losses.” He urges homeowners to review their insurance policies and to understand what is covered. It is important to contact their insurance agent if they have questions or need to update their policies.
Super intendent of Financial Services, Benjamin Lawsky, also noted that homeowners should not take it for granted that they are covered from all possible losses. Lawsky said, “It’s particularly important that homeowners understand how deductibles work. As we continue to study the homeowners’ insurance market in New York’s coastal areas, the department is committed to ensuring homeowners in these areas understand the terms of their policies and take every feasible step to protect their homes.”
Homeowners should consider many factors as to protect themselves in the event of storm losses and making filing claims easier if losses were to occur:
- It is very important to keep copies of insurance policies, insurance cards, and all contact information provided by the agency.
- Compile a home inventory that lists information such as the cost and date of purchase of maor items, to document the contents of the home
- Purchase flood insurance, if the homeowner does not have it already
- Prevent potential loss and damage to the home from fire and theft by doing simple things such as, trimming tree branches, installing storm shutters, and equipping the home with a fire extinguisher
