Preparing for Hurricane Season

Posted on May 22, 2025May 22, 2025 by Robin Easterlin

Hurricanes and tropical storms are difficult to predict, which can make preparing for inclement weather especially challenging. However, taking the right steps now can help protect your property and provide you and your family peace of mind long before a storm hits the radar.

The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to have a higher-than-average threat to U.S. landfalls, with forecasters predicting 17 named storms. To help you stay prepared, here are some important steps to take before hurricane season begins.

Review your policy and identify any gaps in coverage now

As your life changes, so do your insurance needs. By reviewing your policies on an annual basis, you can identify any areas where you may need to add or adjust coverage. For example, you may have insured your home for $200,000 when you first bought it. Due to recent inflation and supply chain issues, your home may cost $300,000 to rebuild in today’s market. That is a $100,000 gap in coverage, which could leave you without the proper resources to rebuild in the event of a loss.

Additionally, an insurance review can help you understand what type of damage may not be covered under your existing policies. For instance, most standard home insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Regardless of whether you live in a flood zone, flood insurance can help you protect your home and its furnishings against these damages, potentially saving you thousands in out-of-pocket expenses.

South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions is able to provide standard flood insurance issued by the National Flood Insurance Program and Neptune Flood Insurance, a customizable private flood insurance option. Review our Flood Insurance page or talk with your insurance advisor for more information.

Be prepared to pay your deductible

Many consumers are experiencing increased deductibles on their insurance policies as insurers pass along rising claims costs. Tariffs are also expected to drive up these costs even higher. It is important to understand how an increased deductible will impact your budget if you file a claim.

A typical hurricane deductible can range from 1% to 5% of a home’s insured value. If your home is insured for $500,000 and your hurricane deductible is 3%, in the event of a total loss, you would be responsible for paying $15,000 toward damages before your policy kicks in. Also, it is not uncommon to have damages caused by a hurricane and a flood from the same event. A flood policy has two separate deductibles, one for the building and one for personal property contents. If each of those deductibles are $2,500, you would pay an additional $5,000 for flood damage caused by a hurricane. In this scenario, you would pay a total of $20,000 before your insurance starts covering the remaining costs.

If you are not sure how you would pay a large deductible, you are not alone. Many adults do not have enough emergency savings to cover unexpected repairs in today’s market. Whether you are just getting started or want to ramp up your savings, South Carolina Federal Credit Union offers a complimentary financial wellness platform, which has tools to help you build your emergency fund. Click here to get started.

Create a home inventory

A home inventory is a detailed log of all of your possessions. Many insurance carriers recommend keeping an up-to-date home inventory, as it can help ensure you have enough coverage and save time and stress when filing a claim.

Your home inventory should account for nearly every item in your household. From appliances to furniture, and any miscellaneous items in storage, your list should be comprehensive and include the following:

Item description including the serial or model number. If possible, use photos or videos to record everything inside and outside of the home and other structures on the property.
Cost and date of large purchases with sales receipts or appraisals.
Estimated replacement cost of each item.

Assembling a household inventory may feel like an overwhelming project. However, completing it in advance of a severe weather event can save you valuable time once a storm is projected for your area. Once you have completed your home inventory, store it in a safe deposit box or another location where it can be accessed easily in an emergency. Hurricane season starts June 1, which means homeowners should plan ahead to ensure coverage is in place before a storm hits the forecast. From the date of purchase, there is a 30-day waiting period for a standard flood policy to take effect. Private flood insurance waiting periods can vary. To help you prepare for hurricane season, contact us to schedule a complimentary review of your coverage.

Make Plans to Protect You and Your Property

Posted on May 22, 2025May 22, 2025 by Robin Easterlin

The Atlantic hurricane season can bring dangerous storms with little warning. The National Weather Service will issue a hurricane warning when sustained winds of 74 mph or higher are expected in a specific area, typically within 24 hours or less. A hurricane watch is issued when there’s a potential for hurricane conditions, usually within 36 hours. During a hurricane watch, it’s important to act quickly to protect your family and property. At South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions, we understand how vital preparation is and we’re committed to helping you safeguard what matters most. To help you stay prepared in the event of an evacuation, we’ve gathered a few key tips to get you started.

Prepare a Family Disaster Plan

Don’t wait for an evacuation order – plan ahead and arrange to stay with friends or relatives who live inland or on higher ground.
Visit Know Your Zone to learn about your area’s evacuation zones. Map out multiple evacuation routes from your home and share these plans with your family.
Save important contacts into everyone’s phones.
If you have pets, create a list of pet-friendly hotels or shelters along your evacuation routes.

Build an Emergency Kit

Prepare a kit with essentials that can support your family for at least three days that includes:

Water (1 gallon per person, per day)
Nonperishable food items
First-aid kit
Flashlight with extra batteries
Battery-powered radio
Phone chargers and backup power sources
Personal hygiene and care items
Basic tools and supplies
Important documents (home inventory, list of medications, insurance policies, passports, extra cash, etc.)
Medications and special items for infants or seniors

Be sure to include essential supplies for your pets, too! Visit the South Carolina Emergency Management Division website for tips and a helpful checklist. Also, consider packing a small bag with personal keepsakes or comfort items that each person would want to bring if case of evacuation.

Prepare Your Home

If you live in a low-lying, flood-prone area or in a mobile home, assess your risk and begin preparation early.
Make any necessary repairs to strengthen your home against high winds and heavy rain.
Install storm shutters or securely fasten plywood over all windows, skylights, and doors.
Clear your yard of loose objects, trim trees and shrubs, and clean out gutters and drains to prevent blockages and water buildup.
Take photos of your home – both interior and exterior – in case you need to file an insurance claim.

Prepare Your Vehicle

Make sure the gas tank is filled and your battery is fully charged.
Inspect oil levels, windshield wipers, headlights, and tire condition to ensure your vehicle is road-ready.
Store car chargers for essential electronic devices.
Take interior and exterior photos of your vehicle in case you need to file an insurance claim.
If you aren’t evacuating, park your vehicle in a garage or on high ground away from trees and power lines, and use a protective cover.

Prepare Your Boat

Decide in advance where you’ll store your boat during a storm – preferably out of the water and in a secure location.
If you plan to evacuate with your boat, securely cover it and remove any loose items that could be damaged or become hazardous in high winds.
Inspect the trailer and tires to ensure they’re in good condition.
Take photos of your boat and trailer for insurance documentation.

Remember, possessions can be replaced but you and your family cannot. Coastal storms and hurricanes can bring devastating financial and emotional impacts. The insurance professionals at Insurance Solutions are here to help you prepare and minimize the financial aftermath. Contact us for more information.

Flood Insurance FAQs

Posted on May 22, 2025May 22, 2025 by Robin Easterlin

Floods are the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States. However, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, only about 15% of homeowners have policies in place to cover their home and belongings for flood-related damage.^* At South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions, we are committed to helping you understand available coverage options and select a policy that fits your unique situation. We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you navigate the world of flood insurance.

Does my homeowners insurance policy cover flood damage?

Many homeowners believe that they are covered for flood damage by their homeowners insurance policy. However, flood coverage is excluded by most homeowners policies.

How can I distinguish flood damage from other water damage that is covered under my homeowners insurance policy?

Under most homeowners insurance policies, if water damage occurs suddenly or accidentally from a source inside your home, such as a busted pipe, it will likely be covered. The primary difference is that with a flood, the water comes from a natural source, such as storm surges, inland flooding caused by bodies of water overflowing, or flash floods.

How much damage can flood water cause?

According to FEMA, just one inch of water can cause $25,000 of damage to your home. Floods can cause power, water, and gas outages; pollute drinking water systems; damage homes and buildings; and cause severe environmental problems. Also, flooding can cause fatalities and serious injuries when people do not heed evacuation orders.

I do not live in a flood zone. Do I still need flood insurance?

Many homeowners believe that they only need flood insurance if their mortgage lender requires it. However, you do not need to live in a high-risk flood zone or near the coast to be at risk. Wherever it rains, it can flood, regardless of your proximity to a body of water. A report by the Insurance Information Institute states that 98% of counties in the United States have been impacted by flooding.*

How can I obtain flood insurance?

Insurance Solutions is proud to offer standard flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program, along with private flood insurance options from Neptune Flood Insurance. To learn more, visit our Flood Insurance page for additional details and self-quoting links. You can also contact one of our knowledgeable, friendly advisors to schedule a comprehensive review of your policies.

^*https://content.naic.org/sites/default/files/cipr-jir-2023-1.pdf

Does Insurance Cover Damage from Wildfires?

Posted on March 28, 2025March 28, 2025 by admin

The recent surge of wildfires in the Carolinas has prompted residents and business owners to review their insurance policies to determine if they have coverage. It is important to note that most homeowners and commercial property policies will cover destruction and damages caused by fire, which includes wildfires. The licensed agents at South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions can review your current policy to help you understand your actual coverage.

If the wildfires have impacted your property, here is some helpful information to begin the claims process:

First and foremost, make sure your family is safe. Do not enter a property unless you are sure it is safe and lawful to do so.
As soon as possible, contact your insurance company directly to report a claim. Click here for a list of websites and phone numbers. If you have trouble finding this information, give us a call at (833) 359-0725.
An insurance adjuster will review your insurance policy and determine what deductibles may apply and if there are any limits on what will be paid. Do not attempt to clean or repair damage before talking with an adjuster. The sooner your damages are assessed, the quicker your claim can be processed.
Provide video or photos of the damaged or destroyed property. Keep a list with notes for documentation along with receipts or valuation records that may be useful when determining the outcome of your claim.
Return any claims forms or requests for information promptly. This will help avoid possible delays in the process.

Any Questions or Concerns

If you have other questions or concerns, our experienced insurance advisors are ready to help you understand the insurance claims process. Call us at (833) 359-0725.

Homeowner Claim Checklist

Posted on December 23, 2024December 27, 2024 by admin

At South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions, we are in the business of helping our clients have peace of mind when dealing with the perils of life. We understand how overwhelming circumstances can be when you have a homeowners insurance claim. Whether a severe storm has damaged your home, a barbeque grill incident has injured a guest, an intruder has broken into your home, or another unfortunate situation has occurred, you need to file an insurance claim to get things back in order. We can help guide you through this process. So, what is your responsibility to get the ball rolling and get you and your family the help you deserve?

Steps to Take When Starting a Property Claim

After an incident where a claim needs to be filed, here are some helpful steps to begin the process:

First and foremost, make sure your family is safe. If a crime was committed, report it to law enforcement immediately. Then, make any quick, temporary repairs that may be necessary to secure your property from further damage or theft, such as boarding up windows and doors. Save your receipts for reimbursement. Make a list of a damaged or missing items and any other details of the incident for your insurance company.
As soon as possible, contact your insurance company directly to report a claim. Click here for a list of websites and phone numbers. If you have trouble finding a this information, give us a call at (833) 359-0725.
Gather receipts or valuation records that may be useful when determining the outcome of your claim. Provide video or photos of the damage. Ask how long the process will take and if you need to get estimates for repairs in the meantime. Keep any receipts for lodging, food, fuel, or pet boarding if you were unable to stay in your residence.
Return any claims forms or requests for information promptly. This will help avoid possible delays in the process, which could greatly inconvenience you and your family.
An insurance adjuster will review your insurance policy and determine what deductibles that may apply and if there are any limits on what will be paid. Be available to talk or meet with your adjuster. The sooner your inspector can assess the damage, the quicker your claim can be processed.

Any Questions or Concerns

If you have other questions or concerns about the homeowner’s claim process, our experienced insurance advisors are ready to help. Call us at (833) 359-0725.

Three Claims Your Home Insurance Would Likely Cover

Posted on May 31, 2024July 10, 2024 by admin

Every home insurance policy has specific terms that determine what claims it covers. At South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions, we can help you understand what types of claims your policy is likely to cover. Of course, your policy coverage is unique such that any claims reported will be adjusted for payment by your insurance carrier.

1. Fire Damage

One of the most serious risks to homes is fire, as a single fire could cause extensive damage or total loss of your home. Whether it’s a kitchen accident, electrical fault, or an external cause, fire can be almost impossibly expensive to recover from without insurance.

Home insurance policies typically cover the cost to repair or rebuild and replace lost or damaged contents if a house fire occurs, depending on the limits you purchased.

2. Slip and Fall Accidents

Suppose someone is injured while on your property, such as in a slip and fall accident; you may be held financially liable for their medical expenses and other losses. Home insurance policies usually include liability protection, which may pay legal fees and medical expenses if a non-family member is injured in or around your house.

3. Burglary

Being victimized by theft in your residence can be both violating and costly. Home insurance can’t prevent the sense of violation you may feel, but it could help replace stolen items. Depending on your policy coverages and limits, your insurance may pay to repair any damaged windows, doors, or other parts of your home during the break-in

Ensure Your Home is Protected

At Insurance Solutions, we understand homeowners’ insurance. Contact us today to ensure your home insurance coverage meets your needs. We’ll review your situation and risks and then help you find a policy that provides the coverages and limits you want.

Four home insurance rules to follow

Posted on October 20, 2023November 7, 2023 by admin

South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions wants you to know some basic information about buying insurance for your home.

Don’t procrastinate before reporting claims

If you wait too long to file a home insurance claim, you might not be able to get costs covered by your policy. File claims immediately after home damage occurs to maximize your chances of getting repair costs covered by your home insurance policy.

Know how much your home is worth before you buy insurance

A home insurance policy should cover the full value of the property and any contents that it insures. That’s why it’s really important for homeowners to know how much their home is worth when they buy home insurance. Consider interior and exterior features and upgrades. Take time to understand the differences between market value, appraised value, and replacement cost.

Get quotes from numerous home insurance providers

Depending on where your property is located, you may be able to request for more than one quote for home insurance. Explore different carrier options and take advantage of those that offer discounts for policy bundling.

Update coverage periodically

As time goes on, your home insurance needs may change. You should adjust your coverage for both your home’s value and your unique financial situation.

We Are Here To Help

If you’re looking for home insurance in South Carolina, we’re here to help. Get in touch with the insurance advisors at Insurance Solutions to get a free quote on a home insurance policy.

Tips to prepare your home for a storm

Posted on March 27, 2023April 11, 2023 by admin

Severe thunderstorms in South Carolina can bring damaging winds, hail, and lightning to your home if you’re not prepared. Here are some tips from the insurance advisors at South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions to help you take action and minimize any impact that may occur.

Tips to prepare your home for a storm

1. Check Your Roof

Before a storm hits, take a look at your roof from the ground and see if there are any loose or missing shingles that need to be replaced. This will ensure that when the storm does hit, no water will make its way into your home through the roof.

2. Trim Trees and Bushes

Storms often bring high winds with them, so it is essential that trees and bushes around your house are trimmed up so they don’t cause any damage to the exterior of your house or nearby power lines in case they break off during the storm.

3. Close Windows and Doors

Make sure to close all windows and doors during a storm so that no wind, rain, or debris makes its way inside your house. If you have shutters on windows, it’s a good idea to close them for extra protection against strong winds and flying debris. Also, move any valuable objects inside.

4. Clear Gutters:

Clogged gutters can lead to water backup which could damage the siding and roofing structures of your home. Be sure to clear out any leaves or debris before the storm hits so that it doesn’t become a problem during the storm itself.

Keep Your Insurance Updated

By following these tips, you should be able to prepare your home for an upcoming storm and help protect it from potential damage! It’s important to read your policy to learn what types of storm damage may or may not be covered. A standard homeowners policy may not cover damages caused by flooding or earthquakes. Contact us at one of our regional offices today for a no-cost review of your insurance policies!

What Does Home Insurance Cover?

Posted on July 29, 2022September 20, 2022 by admin

When you own a home, you have to take the good with the bad. While it is exciting to purchase a home, disaster can strike when you are least expecting it. This is why the home insurance advisors at South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions want you to know what home insurance covers.

Keep in mind that the state of South Carolina does not require homeowners to have home insurance, but if you borrowed the money to purchase your home through a financial institution or mortgage company, your lender will require that you have this type of insurance in place to protect the investment they have made in your property. Even if you inherited your home or paid cash for it, you will want to have insurance to protect your home and its contents in the event of a fire or some other unforeseen disaster.

What Does Home Insurance Cover?

Home insurance covers not only your home itself, but it can cover other buildings on your property too. These buildings can include sheds, garages, and other structures like decks or porches. The structure of your home and these other structures will need to be repaired or replaced if they are affected by some sort of act of vandalism, a natural disaster, or even a fire. Home insurance will also cover your clothing and other personal belongings as well as household items, including your furniture and appliances if they are destroyed or damaged due to one of these circumstances. Your home insurance policy may also assist you in replacing items that are lost due to some sort of theft or burglary incident at your home.

There are other types of insurance you may want to invest in to protect your home that may not be included in a standard home insurance policy, like flood or earthquake coverage. Some policies can be endorsed to add these coverages or they may be purchased as a stand-alone policy. Your insurance advisor can provide more information.

Give Us A Call

To enlist the assistance of an experienced home insurance advisor in the Lowcountry, Midlands, or Upstate regions of South Carolina, call us today at (833) 359-0725!

What Your Home Insurance Protects

Posted on December 20, 2021September 20, 2022 by admin

If you’re buying a home for the first time and need to purchase insurance to satisfy your mortgage lender, make sure you understand what your policy covers in the event of a claim. Many people are unaware of the different coverage types and optional coverages you can add to make sure your home and belongings are protected. For instance, replacement cost is an optional coverage which can help rebuild your home in the same spot, with the same size and quality of construction, at today’s costs. At Insurance Solutions, we can help you understand the terminology in your policy to determine if the coverages and limits are sufficient to protect your investment.

The Scope of Your Policy

Depending on the type of policy, homeowners insurance is surprisingly broad in its scope and will cover many different elements of your home. It will cover the dwelling itself and your personal property in it, subject to the policy limitations and deductibles selected.

But what about protecting you and your family? Let’s take a deeper look to find out what you can expect on this coverage front.

Personal Protection

Your home insurance can protect you and your family in a few different ways. The most obvious is your liability protection which helps to pay for injuries suffered by others on your property. This minimizes your financial liability should you experience a lawsuit.

Will your home policy protect your family if they get hurt on your property? Generally not. This coverage is provided most often by your family’s health insurance.

Protect Your Home

Give us a call today to answer your any questions you may have. Our experienced advisors can create an affordable home insurance plan that works best for your specific needs.