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Wednesday, August 8, 2001 Be ready for hurricane damage Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine reminds Georgians that with hurricane season underway, running through Nov. 30, it's a good to check your homeowners policy for adequate coverage. "To protect your possessions from dangerous weather like hurricanes and tornadoes, it's important to plan ahead and make sure you have adequate insurance," he said. Oxendine offers the following tips for hurricanes, tornadoes and other severe weather: Well before storms strike, decide if you want actual cash value coverage or replacement cost coverage. With actual cash value, you will receive only the current value of an item when you file a claim. In other words, you'll get only "used" prices for your furniture, TV, etc. With replacement cost coverage, your claim amount will be enough to purchase new items. Make a list of your valuables, furniture, electronics, etc. A photographic or videotape record is a good idea. Keep copies of the list or photos in a safe place outside your home, such as a safe deposit box. An accurate record of your possessions will be invaluable if you need to file a claim with your insurance company. Keep auto and homeowners policy numbers, and your agent's phone number, in a safe place as well. While a standard homeowner's insurance policy covers damage from high winds and tornadoes, it does not cover damage from flooding. A separate policy must be purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program, and can only be purchased if you are in a designated flood plain, and if your community participates in the national program. However, a standard mobile home policy can cover damage caused by floods. Check your policy. If disaster strikes, contact your agent or insurance company as soon as possible. After the storm passes, take steps to protect your property from further damage. For example, if your roof is leaking, cover it with a tarp. Most policies won't cover after-storm rain damage. If you have questions about property insurance, you can call Commissioner Oxendine's Consumer Services Division at 404-656-2070 from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m.; or, outside the metro area, please call toll-free 1-800-656-2298.
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