Nationwide Advises Policyholders to be Prepared as Tornado Season Evolves

In the Midwest, spring coincides with tornado season. As severe weather season begins, Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co. is urging policyholders to review their insurance policies as part of storm season preparation.

“It’s crucial for policyholders to know about their insurance coverage
before a storm hits,” said Ken Enscoe, Nationwide’s director of catastrophe claims operations. “Advance planning is key to surviving the aftermath of a tornado.”

Policyholders can take the following steps now to help expedite a claim in the event of a loss:

– Read and understand the insurance policy, especially disclosures.
— Be sure to have adequate coverage and deductibles reasonable for one’s needs.
— Examine the homeowner coverage, as well as auto policies.
– Inventory valuables and contents in the home with pictures or video. Note the approximate value of each item and at the date of purchase. One can also send an inventory to a family member outside the region for safekeeping.
– Make sure important documents, such as an insurance policy or mortgage papers, are stored in a safe deposit or fire safe box.
– It is not recommended that homeowners insurance be used for small claims or losses related to maintenance of property, as many companies apply surcharges for claims.
– Speak with an agent in detail about an appropriate deductible level. Generally speaking, the higher the deductible, the lower one’s insurance premium.
– Before an event, examine the property to ensure there are no physical and/or liability hazards present.
– If one has expensive or specialty items (i.e. jewelry, furs, silverware, cameras, collectibles, etc.) speak with an agent about
broader coverage, as limits do apply under a homeowners policy. Insure these items on a specific property floater or endorsement for the item’s appraised value.