5 tips to prepare for climate change disasters

Warmer temperatures. More powerful storms. Rising sea levels. As global surface temperatures rise, climate experts predict greater potential for extreme weather events like hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires and earthquakes. These climate disasters can bring damaging winds, rains and floods that may threaten homes.  

According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, $1 billion loss events from extreme weather have risen to 13.8 average events annually in the past 5 years, more than double the 6.6 annual events averaged over the last four decades. With extreme weather events on the rise, we've pulled together tips to help prepare for climate change and protect yourself, your family and property.

Tip #1: Understand climate-related risk maps

To prepare for climate change disasters, the most important priority is knowing the climate-related risks associated with your home's location. Also consider indirect factors, such your city's plans to control emergency needs like water flow, and how industrial or commercial buildings nearby might affect your area if they're damaged.  

Tip # 2: Prepare for natural disasters  

If you live in an area vulnerable to climate-related risks, one of the most important ways to prepare for climate change disasters is to make sure you have a proper emergency kit on hand. Basic kits should include:

• Flashlight
• Batteries
• Non-perishable foods and bottled water
• Personal hygiene items and prescriptions
• Supplies for babies and pets
• Hand sanitizer and face masks

In addition, have a communications plan in place with your family in case you are separated. For more immediate detailed information about what to do in a disaster, visit ready.gov (Opens in a new tab).  

Tip #3: Ask your insurer: Does my home insurance cover disasters?

The answer depends. Coverage varies by state and scenario, and you may need separate natural disaster insurance. For example, hurricane damage is covered (with some limits) under a basic home insurance policy in most states. But, flood insurance coverage and earthquake coverage are not part of a standard home insurance policy. Getting coverage for these climate disasters requires separate policies or endorsements.

When considering what natural disaster insurance you need, remember that rebuilding or repairing home damage from severe weather may be costly. For instance, the cost to restore your home after flood water damage averages $8,000. Repairing a damaged foundation after an earthquake can reach $10,000. Is your coverage sufficient for the cost of interior-to-exterior reconstruction? If you think you need to make adjustments to your existing policy, give us a call. We're here to help.

Tip #4: Fortify your home against climate-related risks

Once you understand the climate-related risks in your region, get tips on how to strengthen your home's interior and exterior in our Disaster Preparedness resources. Reinforcing doors, windows and roofs(to prepare for the effects of climate change) may also protect against floods, hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes or tornadoes.

Tip #5: Be prepared to file natural disasters insurance claims

Know what you need to file a claim before you need to file a claim.

• Take photos. If you or your loved ones are affected by climate disasters, before and after pictures will help speed the claims process. This evidence gives insurance adjusters an idea of what was lost. This helps you file claims more quickly.
• Make the call. Add your insurance provider's contact information and your policy number to your phone. That way, if you can't access your insurance paperwork, you can still reach out to start the claims process.
• Ask questions. If you're still wondering "does home insurance covers disasters?" just give us a call. We'll be happy to review your coverage.

Climate disasters can be catastrophic for you, your loved ones and valued property. Prepare for climate change disasters today with the proper insurance coverage to help protect what you value most.

Sources

1. NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) U.S. "Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters (2020)." https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/billions/, DOI: 10.25921/stkw-7w73 21 November 2020.
2. USGS. "How Can Climate Change Affect Natural Disasters?" FAQ. USGS. https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/how-can-climate-change-affect-natural-disasters-1?qt-news_science_products=0#qt-news_science_products. 21 November 2020.
3. Home Advisor. "Home Disaster Recovery Costs Guide." https://www.fixr.com/costs/water-damage-restoration 21 November 2020.