Is Your Home Prepared for El Niño?

Home Preparation for Bad Weather & Storms

The Golden State is known for itâ's good weather of bright sunshine all year long. While this is the case, be warned that this warm summer sun will not continue into the later part of 2015. El Niño is coming and it is predicted to hit California hard. With the winter weather almost upon us and the El Niño warnings, homeowners should steady their homes now for adverse and unexpected weather. Rate Your Risks Whether you live in a high-rise building or in the dip of a valley, be sure to know what risks you should become prepared for. If you think you are safe renting an apartment on the 10^th floor, think again! If the building below you becomes damaged from the storm and your belongings are destroyed, you will wish that you had that renters insurance to aid the cost of repairing and replacing your items. Plan & Prepare Here are five things that you can do to prepare for a strong El Niño!

• Clear your propertyâ's drains, gutters, and downspouts of leaves and debris.
• Make copies of your important documents and make sure that the originals are stored safely outside of your home, such as a safe deposit box.
• Take photos of your possessions, gather their receipts, and store them along with the important, safe-kept documents. Ensure that the value of your belongings and home match your homeowners insurance.
• Get flood insurance! Home insurance typically doesnâ't cover the cost of floods.
• Prepare an emergency supply kit! Stock up on flashlights, a First Aid kit, blankets, non-perishable foods, drinking water, a battery-powered radio, and other necessities that will see you through a natural disaster.

Furthermore, know that your home is able to be fully restored after the event of a natural disaster, whether that be damage from a storm, water, or fire, with homeowners insurance from Cook, Disharoon & Greathouse Insurance. Recovering from a disaster is stressful enough without the help of financial relief from insurance services. Contact us in Oakland today to get started on your tailored Northern California policy!