Preparing homes for potential spring storms

Homeowners can begin preparing for potential spring storms.

“There’s tornadoes, there’s lightning, hail storms, wind, thunderstorms, potentially flooding in some cases,” said Statefarm Spokesperson Kevin Gamble.

Some water damage, he said, is covered under homeowners insurance but any damage from a flood typically requires a seperate flood policy.

Gamble recommends homeowners talk to their insurance agent to fully understand what their policy covers.

“Add any coverages you need and make sure those are in place before a significant weather event were to happen,” he said. “It can also be a good time to take a home inventory.”

Documentation is important when filing an insurance claim, Gamble said.

“Take photos of the damages, repairs, take notes and keep all your receipts,” he said.

Missouri Department of Insurance offers severe weather resources, homeowners insurance guides and a home inventory checklist.

Property damage claims from wind or hail are the most common with 1 in 40 insured homeowners making a claim each year, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

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