Life comes at you fast—and sometimes it brings hurricanes, house fires, or unexpected break-ins right along with it. As a busy homeowner juggling family, work, and everything in between, it’s easy to put disaster planning on the back burner. But when the unexpected happens, even a little preparation can make a huge difference.
That’s why we’ve created this quick, practical guide to disaster-proofing both your home and your wallet—so you can protect what matters most and stay financially secure no matter what comes your way.
Every region has its own set of natural threats. In coastal areas, hurricanes and flooding might top the list. In others, wildfires, earthquakes, or snowstorms could be the bigger concern.
Start by asking:
What types of disasters are common in my area?
Is my home structurally ready for these risks?
Do I have insurance that actually covers them?
Our Advice: Standard homeowners insurance does not automatically cover things like floods or earthquakes. You may need separate policies or endorsements. Learn more about protecting your Personal Property here.
You don’t have to turn your house into a fortress—but small changes can go a long way.
Here’s what we recommend:
Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level (and test them monthly)
Trim trees and clear gutters before hurricane or fire season
Reinforce doors and windows with storm shutters or security film
Secure valuables in a fireproof safe or lockbox
Use smart home tech (cameras, water sensors, alarms) for peace of mind when you're away
Extra advice: Some of these upgrades may qualify you for home insurance discounts. A Wells Insurance agent can help you explore your options.
If disaster strikes, you want to be able to act—not panic. That means:
Setting up an emergency checklist which includes a go-bag with essentials (meds, documents, flashlights, batteries, chargers, etc.)
Creating a communication plan (who calls who, and where to meet)
Teaching your kids how to dial 911 and what to do in a fire or severe weather situation
Saving emergency contacts and insurance info (including policy numbers and the phone numbers for your carrier) in a safe place—and digitally
Need a family emergency kit checklist? You can find it on our website or there are some templates from FEMA.
Now let’s talk insurance. Because even with all the prep in the world, you can’t control everything—and that’s exactly why insurance exists.
Here are the top coverages to review:
Homeowners Insurance: Make sure your policy covers the replacement cost of your home—not just its market value.
Flood Insurance: This is not included in standard policies. Even low-risk areas can flood, and cleanup costs add up fast.
Sewer Backup & Water Damage Riders: Often overlooked, but critical for older homes or storm-prone areas.
Umbrella Insurance: For extra liability protection beyond your home and auto policy limits—because lawsuits do happen.
Scheduled Personal Property: If you have high-value items like jewelry or electronics, make sure they’re properly covered.
Not sure where to start? We’ll walk you through it. Request a coverage review and our knowledgable agents will help you fill any gaps.
The last thing you want to do in a crisis is scramble to remember what you own.
Here’s how to stay ready:
Take photos or videos of your belongings—room by room
Save receipts or appraisal documents for big-ticket items
Store your records somewhere safe (and backed up in the cloud)
This simple inventory can be a game changer when filing a claim. Don’t skip it!
You’ve worked hard to build a life for your family—and protecting it is more than just having a solid lock on the door. From natural disasters to everyday mishaps, life is full of curveballs. But with the right safety measures and the right insurance coverage, you can face those surprises with confidence.
Let us help you take the guesswork out of protection. At Wells Insurance, we offer trusted guidance, tailored solutions, and genuine peace of mind—so you can get back to focusing on what really matters.
👉 Click here to contact your Wells Insurance agent and get a personalized disaster-readiness plan that works for you and your family.