Many Homeowners Underinsured For Hurricanes

Despite warnings of the 2004 and 2005 hurricane seasons, many homeowners are still unprepared and inadequately insured, according to a new study.

A study conducted for the National Hurricane Survival Initiative by Mason-Dixon Polling and Research found that many residents of states that could potentially be hit by a hurricane are generally unaware of the risks or of the specifics of their insurance coverage.

One in three survey respondents said it had been three years or more since they last reviewed their coverage, and more than half either believed their homeowners' insurance policy provided coverage against flooding, or were unsure.

Jeanne Salvatore, senior vice president and consumer spokesperson for the Insurance Information Institute, said the findings show the need to educate consumers about homeowners and flood insurance. This is particularly important as meteorologists expect an active 2006 hurricane season.

According to estimates, the United States has an 80 percent chance of being hit by a major hurricane this year, with a 64 percent chance the storm will hit Florida.

“Coastal residents from Maine to Texas should take steps now to make sure they have the right insurance in the right amounts to help them recover from a major storm this summer,” Ms. Salvatore said.

The I.I.I. recommended homeowners make sure they have enough insurance to rebuild their home and replace lost personal belongings, and also ask about coverage for additional living expenses. The I.I.I. also urged that homeowners investigate flood insurance and other additional coverage, and maintain a personal inventory and home evacuation plan.

The I.I.I. recommended that homeowners take steps to mitigate potential hurricane damage, which the study found many are not doing. According to the study, 83 percent of homeowners potentially vulnerable to hurricanes have not taken any steps to strengthen their homes against a storm.