Be Proactive: Prepare for Storm Season with Mercury Insurance
Simple preventive steps can save thousands in storm damage, ensuring families are ready for severe weather.
LOS ANGELES — Mercury Insurance (NYSE: MCY) is helping homeowners gear up for storm season by providing a comprehensive checklist to follow before heavy rains begin. Floods, strong winds, and the strain on infrastructure can bring significant risks during seasonal storms. However, taking small preventive measures can dramatically reduce risks and help avoid costly property damage.
"Preparation is key to reducing risks before the first drop of rain falls," said Adam Bakonis, Senior Product Manager at Mercury Insurance. "Homeowners can implement simple, affordable actions today to make a substantial impact on protecting their families and property when storms approach."
Essential Storm Season Checklist
Roof and Gutters: Inspect your roof to identify any missing or compromised shingles and address these issues quickly, as missing shingles can lead to leaks. Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear to direct water away from your home; clogged gutters are a leading cause of storm-related flooding.
Windows and Doors: Check the weatherproofing materials — weatherstripping, caulking, and seals — around all openings. Consider using storm shutters or window film to reinforce weak points. Even minor cracks can allow rainwater in, resulting in mold or structural dilemmas.
Foundation and Drainage: Ensure the ground surrounding your home slopes away from the foundation. Regularly inspect sump pumps and French drains for blockages. Test pumps with water to ensure they operate properly when needed.
Outdoor Items and Landscaping: Secure or store patio furniture, garden decorations, and other items that could become projectiles in high winds. Trim tree branches that could fall on roofs or power lines, as fallen limbs are a common cause of storm claims.
Emergency Supplies: Keep essential items on hand, including flashlights, batteries, portable chargers, a first-aid kit, bottled water, and several days’ worth of non-perishable food. Severe storms can often cause power outages.
Vehicles: Park vehicles in garages or sheltered areas when possible. If not, avoid low-lying spots that may be vulnerable to flooding. Damage to vehicles during storms can be expensive and sometimes overlap with homeowners insurance deductibles.
Insurance Coverage: Review your insurance policy to confirm it covers storm-related damage. Understanding your deductible is essential, as many homeowners are surprised to learn that flood damage typically requires a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Always check with your insurance provider about what is included in your coverage to avoid unexpected issues.
The Importance of Preparation
Research by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) highlights that storms result in billions of dollars in damages annually across the nation, with rain-related flooding being among the most severe threats. Engaging in early preparation allows homeowners to reduce these risks and facilitates quicker recovery following severe weather events.
About Mercury Insurance
Mercury Insurance (NYSE: MCY) is a prominent multi-line insurance provider, focusing on personal auto, homeowners, renters, and commercial insurance. The company operates through a network of independent agents across various states, including Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Texas, and Virginia, while also providing auto insurance in Florida. Mercury provides value through competitive pricing and excellent service, supported by over 4,200 employees and more than 6,340 independent agents nationwide. Mercury Insurance has consistently received high ratings, including an "A" rating from A.M. Best and recognition from various industry outlets as one of the top auto insurance companies.
To learn more about storm preparation and how to protect your home from severe weather conditions, visit www.MercuryInsurance.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I check on my roof before the storm season?
Inspect for missing or damaged shingles and repair them to prevent leaks.
How can I secure my outdoor items before a storm?
Bring patio furniture and decorations inside, and trim tree branches that could fall.
Why is it important to review my insurance coverage?
Understanding your coverage ensures you know what storm damage is included and avoid surprises.
What emergency supplies should I have ready?
Essentials include flashlights, batteries, water, food, and a first-aid kit.
How do I test my sump pump?
Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to see if it activates automatically.
