The boring paperwork is what makes recovery possible. Here's how to get your documents in order before a storm hits.
The most overlooked part of hurricane prep isn't sandbags or water — it's paperwork. When a storm damages your home, having your insurance and documents organized turns a nightmare recovery into a manageable process. Here's how to get ready.
Review your insurance now
- Confirm your homeowner's policy is current and understand what it covers
- Remember: standard policies do not cover flooding — you need a separate flood policy
- Flood insurance typically has a 30-day waiting period, so buy well before a storm
- Know your deductibles, including any separate hurricane or wind deductible
- Ask your agent about coverage gaps before you need to file
Create a home inventory
Document your belongings with photos or video, room by room. Note major items, serial numbers, and approximate values. This makes claims faster and helps ensure you're fully reimbursed. Store the inventory in the cloud so it survives even if your home doesn't.
Protect critical documents
Gather and safeguard:
- Insurance policies and your agent's contact info
- IDs, passports, and Social Security cards
- Property deeds, titles, and mortgage documents
- Medical records and prescription lists
- Birth certificates and other vital records
Keep physical copies in a waterproof, portable container and digital copies encrypted in the cloud or on a secure drive.
After a storm
File claims as soon as possible, document all damage before cleanup, and keep receipts for any emergency repairs and lodging. Many policies reimburse those costs.
Ten minutes of organizing today can save you weeks of frustration later. Do the paperwork before the season, not during the storm.
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