The pandemic and the presidential election dominated the news in 2020, but natural disasters also loomed large across the U.S. There were 22 extreme weather events last year, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, including the wildfires that spread across California, the tropical storms and hurricanes that pummeled the Atlantic coast, and a handful of tornadoes. Those disasters left more than $95 billion in damages in their wake, with homeowners and businesses large and small bearing the brunt of the costs. // Many homeowners have misconceptions about what their home insurance policy will cover, leaving them with unexpected expenses when disaster strikes. For example, when Policygenius.com, an insurance comparison website, surveyed homeowners last year, more than 53% of them said they believed that flood damage is covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy. (It’s not.) The survey also found that more than 80% of homeowners mistakenly thought that earthquake damage was covered, too. If you’re at risk for either of those events—or any natural disaster—here’s what you need to know to make sure you’re covered.
FLOODS AND HURRICANES
Certain kinds of water damage are covered by standard homeowners insurance. For example, if your water heater springs a leak or a water pipe inside your house bursts, your home insurance will probably cover the damages after you meet your deductible. (For tips on how to detect leaks early, see page 52.) But if it’s any other type of water event, such as flooding from heavy rainfall or a hurricane, you’re on the hook for the costs to repair the damages.
Denne historien er fra April 2021-utgaven av Kiplinger's Personal Finance.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra April 2021-utgaven av Kiplinger's Personal Finance.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF DISABLED VETERANS
He suffered grave injuries in the line of duty. Now he helps other veterans who have disabilities.
DO YOU NEED UMBRELLA INSURANCE?
A policy can protect you from financially devastating events.
Navigating Finances as a Blended Family
Money matters can get complicated when two families unite. Planning is key.
BREAKING UP WITH YOUR BROKER
Be aware of these challenges when you move your money to a new home.
CHOOSE A MEDICARE PLAN THAT'S RIGHT FOR YOU
Consider your health care needs over the long term as you weigh costs and coverage.
Keep Faith in These Stocks
IN 1997, I coined the phrase “faith-based investing.” It has nothing to do with religion or with picking stocks at random.
OUR ESG PICKS ARE THRIVING
Despite an ongoing backlash, our favorite stocks and funds focused on environmental, social and corporate governance issues had a good year overall.
MONEY MANNERS FOR THE MODERN AGE
The customs for splitting a restaurant check, purchasing a wedding gift, tipping and more have evolved. These guidelines can help.
ELECTION 2024: POLITICS AND YOUR PORTFOLIO
Who wins the White House matters—but only at the margins when it comes to your investments.
YOUR GUIDE TO OPEN ENROLLMENT
With health care costs on the rise, it’s critical to select a plan that fits your needs at the right price.