Preparedness Month: Think About it Thursday (1 of 4)

September is National Preparedness Month. Cattaraugus County Office of Emergency Services would like to share some ideas and tips that everyone can use to keep themselves and their families safe(er) during and after emergencies.

Think About it Thursday: Week 1

Do I have insurance for this?

Cattaraugus County has experienced several storms over the past few months and years that have sent renters and property owners to their insurance companies looking for help. We have heard from many people that they wish they had been more familiar with their insurance policies before the damage happened. Now is the time to find out what your policy covers and what it doesn't cover. We recommend every property owner or renter reviews their insurance policy annually and find out what that list of coverage really means.

In case you didn't know, those that rent or lease space - whether apartment homes, storage space, or commercial property - need renter's insurance to cover their belongings inside that building. Often times, a property owner's insurance policy only covers the building and not a renter's property. Don't rely on "I think their policy covers my stuff" or "I hope I have insurance for that." You need to know you have coverage. Reach out to your insurance company and talk with them... Some questions you might consider asking are:

• What should I do immediately after my property is damaged?
• How do I file a claim? Who do I call?
• Do I have flood insurance? What does it cover?
• What types of weather events/ damage does my policy cover? Is there additional coverage available?
• Are my accessory buildings or outbuildings (sheds, detached garages, barns, chicken coops, studios/ workshops, etc.) covered? Is my property stored in those buildings covered?
• Are my livestock covered?
• Should I begin clean up or repairs on my own or file a claim/ contact the company first?
• Do I have to pay for repairs out of pocket and then be reimbursed or are funds provided up front?
• Do I have a deductible? If so, make a plan to have your deductible saved up and set aside so that you have that money available in case of emergency.

Make sure you have written/ printed copies of your insurance documents and contact information kept in a safe place. Important documents should be maintained in a waterproof and fireproof container that is secure, yet easily accessible in case of an emergency.