TOPEKA (KSNT) – While severe weather can be unpredictable, there are steps homeowners can take to be prepared for the worst.
KSNT 27 News spoke with Marc Shepherd who is the senior risk manager at Copeland Insurance in Topeka. He said they see a lot of damage from outdoor furniture and toys. Securing or storing patio chairs, trampolines and hot tub covers can go a long way.
“The bad thing is these are all things insurance probably won’t get to your deductible,” Shepherd said. “So they’re things that damage your property and damage you, that don’t even get covered in a lot of cases.”
Shepherd also said taking a personal inventory is often overlooked. In a worst-case scenario when a claim needs to be made, he said insurance companies will ask for a list of your belongings and proof you owned them.
The good news is, he told 27 News getting that proof is much easier than it used to be.
“Many years ago,” he said, “we used to have people use VHS recorders and make tapes and store them in a safe or a bank. But today, there’s just a cell phone. Even in 15 minutes today walk through your house, video your closets, your drawers.”
Some other steps homeowners can take to prepare:
- Ensure gutters and fencing are secure
- Fully close all doors, including garage doors and those inside the home
- Make sure contact info for insurance agents is up to date
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