As spring approaches, the risk of tornadoes becomes more prevalent across the United States. These storms are powerful and capable of inflicting significant damage in a matter of minutes. Even mild storms with winds less than 100 mph can damage roofs, break windows, and be accompanied by brief hailstorms. Before tornado season begins, ensure that your auto and home insurance can provide adequate protection from potentially devastating losses.

What You Should Know About Tornadoes & Insurance

Does Your Auto & Home Insurance Protect You?

The standard home insurance policy covers damage caused by high winds, along with the hail and lightning tornadoes often bring. If your home is destroyed in the storm, your policy will pay to rebuild. Your car, however, may not be protected unless you have comprehensive auto insurance, which protects against storm damage, wind-born debris, fire, and hail.

Conducting a Home Inventory

After a tornado, your personal possessions may be destroyed or missing, which can make filing a home insurance claim difficult. Compiling a thorough list of your belongings when you purchase your policy will help ensure you’re compensated for these losses and expedite the claims process. Take videos or pictures of every item in your house, including the make, model, and serial numbers of appliances and electronics.

Checking Your Coverage Limits

Inflation and property values tend to push up construction costs, which could mean your home insurance policy doesn’t offer enough coverage to rebuild after a total loss. Even policies based on the replacement value of your home may not fully cover rebuilding costs, so consult with your agent on an annual basis. If necessary, they can adjust your policy limits to ensure you’re fully protected from one of nature’s most destructive forces.

In just a few minutes, a tornado can wipe out everything you own, which is why carefully tailored home insurance coverage is so important. Since 1954, Jenkins & Bevan Insurance has helped homeowners throughout Lorain County, OH, protect themselves from the unexpected, offering personal service and coverage you can trust. Visit their website for an overview of their products and services, get more tips and insight on their Facebook page, or call (440) 984-6771 to request an auto or home insurance quote today.