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Severe Weather Prep Steps

Last year the state’s volatile spring and summer weather caused more than $100 million in damage with just three Ohio storms. Ohioans need to take action now to help protect against personal financial loss this year.  The three storms last year produced high winds, hail and lightning. Ohio’s finicky warm weather can turn from a blue sky to destructive storms in minutes.

Three guideposts to help people prepare for the worst:

  • Be Ready. Conduct a home inventory to use for claim filing.  Review your insurance policies with an agent.
  • Be Involved. After a storm, call your insurance company or agent as soon as your family is secure. Waiting can cost you time and money.
  • Be Careful. Don’t be victimized by fraudulent contractors.
  • Get several estimates for repairs. Be present during inspections.
  • Pay the full amount only after all the work is finished and never paying cash.

More than half of Americans fail to document their possessions with video or pictures, putting them at risk for inadequate financial protection and difficulty in submitting insurance claims. With advance preparation, you will be better positioned to recoup your losses.

A home inventory checklist, along with other important resources, is included in the Ohio Department of Insurance’s Ohio Severe Weather Awareness Planning and Recovery Toolkit – www.insurance.ohio.gov. Contact the Ohio Department of Insurance at 1-800-686-1526

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