Hurricanes come, but when they go they usually leave devastation in their paths, so to help property owners prepare, two insurance managers, David Crowhurst, executive vice president of property and casualty and John Doherty, vice president of property and casualty of the Argus Group answer some questions from Rene Hill on insurance and hurricane>What kind of coverage would you recommend that homeowners get for the hurricane season?

All homeowners should have a home insurance policy in place at all times that is renewed annually and with premium payments kept up-to-date. The standard Argus Home Policy covers a wide array of risks to which homeowners are exposed, including fire and lightning, for buildings, home contents and other personal possessions. These policies offer a good standard of protectioB>

We have seen the first tropical storm of the season so far, which is early, when do you recommend that homeowners get on the ball?<$>

With changing weather patterns, the occurrence of storms becomes less predictable or seasonal. We shouldn’t forget winter storms and tornadoes either. Therefore, homeowners are advised to take precautions all year round to safeguard their property. Don’t wait until after a major storm is forecast to hit the island!

Insurers can issue more specific advice to their policy-holders on hurricanes, including preparations and what to do before, during and after a hurricane visits Bermuda. These recommendations are very important and invaluable help to ensure the health and safety of people and property.

Is there special coverage for hurricane damage i.e. should they get coverage for flood damage as we<$>

Make sure you speak with your insurer to clarify what is included in your existing policy. The standard Argus Home Insurance Policy covers hurricane damage as well as possible other consequences such as damage from falling trees and flooding.

How does a homeowner assess the amount of coverage that they will need?

It is vital that homeowners ensure that the amount of coverage is sufficient should a major loss or damage occur.

The amount insured for buildings should reflect the full rebuilding cost, and for contents, the replacement cost. If necessary, homeowners should obtain further advice to ensure the values are correct.

Some insurers, including Argus, provide guidance in the assessment of values for buildings based on the size (square footage) and characteristics of individual properties.

This is done through a visit to the property at no cost to customers.

What are your professional backgrounds?

David Crowhurst, executive vice president of Property & Casualty, has recently joined the Argus Group having spent more than 30 years in the insurance industry in the UK and Europe, with a particular background in property insurance.

John Doherty, vice president of Property & Casualty, has been involved in the Bermuda insurance market for more than 10 years and holds both the Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) and the Associate in Reinsurance (ARe) designati.

Is there anything else you wish to add?

In addition to adhering to guidelines for precautions and preparations for homes, insurers can also provide guidance for boat owners in order to safeguard their boats.

With the potential in Bermuda for significant hurricane damage, such as was experienced during Hurricane Fabian in 2003, insurers themselves need to be prepared for a significant increase in claims. For example, the Argus Group prepares for this type of situation and has a catastrophe claims plan, which will ‘kick in’ if a major hurricane is experienced. This is designed to help our policyholders cope with losses and making claims. After Hurricane Fabian, Argus established a good reputation for prompt and fair claims settlement.

Insurance provides peace of mind