Insurance bureau offers hurricane season tips

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Hurricane season is approaching, and the state Bureau of Insurance is urging Virginians to check their coverage before a storm hits.

The season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30 each year. Insurance Commissioner Jacqueline Cunningham says it’s wise to make sure your insurance provides adequate coverage before the first hurricane begins to brew. Once a hurricane develops it will be difficult to find a company willing to write related coverage until the storm threat passes.

According to the bureau, most hurricane damage comes from flooding, not high winds. Most policies in Virginia don’t cover flood damage, but residents of eligible communities can buy flood insurance from the federal government.

The bureau suggests making an inventory of possessions and taking policies with you if you have to evacuate.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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