Spring brings warmer weather, longer days, and unfortunately, stronger storms. High winds, hail, heavy rain, and flooding can cause serious property damage in a matter of minutes. Before storm season is in full swing, now is the perfect time to review your homeowners insurance coverage and reduce your risk. Here’s a practical insurance checklist every homeowner should complete this spring.
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Review Your Roof Coverage
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against severe weather.
- When was your roof last inspected?
- Is it covered at replacement cost or actual cash value?
- Do you know your wind/hail deductible?
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that wind and hail deductibles can differ from their standard deductible. If your area is prone to severe weather, understanding this detail is critical.
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Understand Your Wind & Hail Deductible
In many states, wind and hail deductibles are calculated as a percentage of your home’s insured value, not a flat dollar amount.
For example:
If your home is insured for $400,000 and you have a 2% wind deductible, you would be responsible for $8,000 before insurance pays.
Reviewing this now helps avoid unexpected costs after a storm.
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Check for Flood Coverage Gaps
One of the biggest misconceptions in insurance:
Homeowners insurance does NOT cover flood damage.
Flood insurance typically requires a separate policy. Even homes outside high-risk flood zones can experience flooding due to:
- Rapid snowmelt
- Heavy rain
- Poor drainage systems
- Neighboring property runoff
If you’re unsure whether you have flood coverage, now is the time to confirm.
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Inspect Exterior Risks
Preventative maintenance can reduce claims and keep premiums stable.
Spring maintenance checklist:
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Trim tree branches near the roof
- Inspect siding and windows
- Check foundation drainage
- Test sump pumps
Insurance protects you financially, but prevention protects you physically and structurally.
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Document Home Updates & Improvements
Have you recently:
- Renovated a kitchen or bathroom?
- Finished a basement?
- Installed a new roof?
- Added a deck or pool?
Upgrades can increase your home’s value and may require higher coverage limits. Failing to update your policy could leave you underinsured.
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Review Personal Property Coverage
Do you own:
- Jewelry
- Firearms
- Collectibles
- Expensive electronics
- Artwork
High-value items may require scheduled endorsements for full protection. Spring is a great time to update your home inventory and take photos for documentation.
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Schedule an Annual Policy Review
Insurance should never be “set it and forget it.”
Life changes. Property values change. Construction costs change. Your coverage should evolve with them.
A 15-minute annual review can:
- Identify coverage gaps
- Clarify deductibles
- Explore discount opportunities
- Ensure adequate protection
Storm season is unpredictable but your preparation doesn’t have to be.
Taking proactive steps now can prevent financial stress later.
If you’d like a complimentary spring coverage review, contact John Scott Insurance Agency today at:
👉 www.johnscottinsurance.com
Protect what matters most before the storm arrives.