Be Prepared for Hailstorm Season!

Hail season is quickly approaching and Insure the Lake is here to make sure you're prepared! Many of Missouri's most dangerous hailstorms have occurred in April. While hailstorms don't last long, they do pack a real punch. Hail causes nearly $1 billion in damages, mostly to roofs and cars, each year! Make sure you understand your Lake of the Ozarks insurance coverage and take the time to check your roof before hail season.

Before a Hailstorm

Make sure you know how much your insurance covers, as well as how much you need.

• Check your policy to see what's covered and also what your deductable is. 
• Your insurance policy will typically cover the cost to repair roofs, cars with comprehensive coverage and other common hail damage. 
• You might have a higher deductible for wind and hail damage than you do for other types of claims. 
• Talk to your Lake of the Ozarks insurance agent to find out more! 

Ways to Reduce Hail Damage 

If you haven't taken a look at your roof in awhile, now is the time to do it! Many roofing companies will come out an inspect it for you for free. Roof repairs today can help you avoid extensive, time-consuming cleanup later! 

• Repair or replace worn, curled or missing shingles. 
• If your roof is aging, consider replacing it before hail season begins. 

During a Hailstorm

Protect Yourself and Your Car
In severe storms, a hail stone can be as large as a softball and fall at 50-100 miles per hour!

• Stay indoors. 
• Stay away from skylights and glass doors to avoid broken glass. 
• If it is safe, close drapes, blinds or shades to prevent debris from blowing inside. 
• If you can, park your car in the garage or other covered area. 

After a Hailstorm

Put safety first when assessing the damage. Rememeber that there may be broken glass, sharp objects or live wires. Wear proper shoes and gloves, and never use rain-soaked electrical equipment. If you have experienced damage from a hailstorm, report it to your insurance agent at the Lake of the Ozarks as soon as possible. During the initial call, you should be prepared to provide a general description of the damage. Document any items that were damaged; a good, thorough list will help the claim prozess along. Make temporary or necessary repairs. Make sure you save your reciepts from any temporary fixes as part of documenting your damage.

Keep in mind that most companies will pay your home claim based on Actual Cash Value that includes depreciation. Once the repairs are completed, the company should pay the additional replacement cost amount. They don't pay to replace unless you do replace the roof or make the necessary repairs.

By taking the time to prepare for a hailstorm before it occurs, you may be able to avoid costly damage to your home or vehicle. For all of your auto and homeowners insurance needs, contact Insure the Lake! Life Happens...Live Protected!

Contact Insure the Lake today for all your Lake of the Ozarks car insurance needs! 

About the Author: Steve is a double back-flip insurance ninja. He was named Young Insurance Agent of the Year by the Missouri Association of Insurance Agents in 2010 and is a Certified Insurance Counselor. When he is not helping customers, he enjoys community service, Latin dancing with his beautiful wife and going on adventures with his two awesome sons.

Steve Naught, CIC

NAUGHT-NAUGHT AGENCY

3736 Osage Beach Parkway
Osage Beach, MO 65065
Next to Golden Coral

T: 573-348-2794
F: 573-348-0191

stnaught@naught-naught.com