FAQs & Tips

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Hurricane Tips

  • Take all hurricane warnings seriously.
  • Do not believe that hurricanes will always bypass us i.e. that they will not strike The Bahamas. We have had major hurricane catastrophes.
  • Do not believe that because your building is well constructed it cannot sustain major damage.
  • Hurricanes can cause loss of life, destruction of buildings and serious damage to contents because of wind-driven and excessive rainfall.
  • As a result of a hurricane, there could be widespread flooding in unexpected places.
  • At the beginning of the hurricane season, locate your hurricane shutters.
  • Check your storm shutters to make certain that they fit and work properly.
  • Be aware that plywood nailed into your walls can be blown off during the windstorm.
  • It is better to have plywood cut precisely to fit within your window opening.
  • If you wait until the last minute, necessary items might be sold out or the price of them might increase significantly.
  • Falling branches or coconuts and green fruits from trees can become deadly missiles during a hurricane. Note that trees do not provide good protection for vehicles.
  • Replace loose shingles at the beginning of the season.
  • Keep extra supplies of canned goods and other non-perishable items on hand
  • At the start of the hurricane season, locate your insurance policy. If you are unable to find it, request a copy.
  • Review your insurance coverage. Hurricane coverage is optional, so ensure that the hurricane peril is covered under your policy.
  • Check on coverage for items such as satellite dishes.
  • Be sure to check the expiry date of your policy as you may not be able to reinstate cover or effect changes once a hurricane warning has been issued.
  • The cost to rent alternative living accommodations, as a result of a hurricane loss is not covered by the standard policy. It can be added for a nominal premium charge.
  • Your policy has a hurricane deductible of between 1% and 2% of the sum insured. Check your policy wording.
  • Do not underinsure your property as most policies contain penalties for this.

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