Hurricane season is just around the corner, and since your home is one of your largest and most important investments, you need to take necessary precautions to protect it. The experienced agents at Mutual Underwriters can help Hawaiians review their homeowners insurance policies to ensure they have the right protections in the event disaster strikes. Here, they discuss several tips to reduce any potential damage and keep your home secure.

9 Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Hurricane

1. Review Your Homeowners Insurance Policy

You should review your homeowners insurance every year to ensure the policy covers the full cost to rebuild your home—not just your home’s current value.

2. Obtain Flood Insurance

While your homeowners insurance policy will cover damage sustained in a hurricane, it typically will not cover damaged caused by the flooding that follows.

3. Document Your Property

Whether you keep a notebook or take photos of your personal belongings, keep an updated inventory.

4. Inspect & Repair Your Roof

Check your shingles for cracks and repair them and replace those that are missing. You may also want to seal the roof if you’re having the entire thing replaced. This will keep water out.

5. Reinforce Attached Structures

Porches, carports, and other attached structures should be reinforced. Otherwise, they could be ripped off, leaving a gaping hole in your home.

6. Seal Windows & Doors

Hawaii’s warm climate can do serious damage to windows and doors. Check to ensure they are properly sealed so rain cannot get in.

7. Plug Any Holes

Any holes in your house from electrical wires or cables should be plugged to keep water out.

8. Keep Your Lawn Clear

Patio furniture, lawn chairs, barbeque grills and other items can cause serious damage if left out during a hurricane. Store them indoors or ensure they are secured.

9. Reinforce Garage Doors

Garage doors are prone to blowing in on themselves in hurricanes, which can lead to extreme damage if they are attached to your home. Reinforce them with a vertical brace and wooden beams.

When you’re ready to review your homeowners insurance policy, contact Mutual Underwriters at (808) 532-2888. They have five convenient locations throughout Hawaii and also offer other insurance products, including business and auto insurance. Visit their website to find a location near you.