With Hurricane Dorian, time to get insurance is closing fast

Aug. 29--There's still a small window of time for Floridians to buy insurance ahead of Hurricane Dorian, but you'll have to move fast.

Mark Friedlander, a spokesman for the Insurance Information Institute, said those in the path of the storm can purchase home and auto insurance or adjust their existing policies up until the National Hurricane Center issues a hurricane watch or warning in their county.

"It's not too late," Friedlander said Thursday.

But with Dorian expected to make landfall in Florida on Monday morning, there's not much time left, he warned.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Wednesday evening declared a state of emergency, but as of Thursday afternoon there were not any warnings or watches in effect.

Homeowners and renters insurance policies, which usually cover any damage from wind, can be purchased until a warning or watch is declared. Landlord policies won't cover tenant possessions.

Auto insurance comprehensive coverage policies, which include any non-collision damage, is also still up for grabs.

The window has closed for flood insurance, however. Generally covered under FEMA, but available through some private providers, flood insurance policies usually have a 10- to 30-day waiting period. Flood insurance also covers any damage from storm surge to coastal communities.

If you're not sure what policy you have, contact your insurance agent as soon as possible.

Keep in mind, if you have a policy through Citizens Property Insurance, which is run by the state, a statewide moratorium on policy changes is usually put in place as soon as a watch or warning has been issued for any county, whether you are a resident there or not.

Friedlander recommended that residents take photos and videos of their homes and possessions ahead of the storm and after it passes to document any damage, and to file claims as soon as possible.

Got a news tip? You can email Caroline at cglenn@orlandosentinel.com or call 407-420-5685, and follow her on Twitter @bycarolineglenn.

Click here to read more tips and the latest updates on Hurricane Dorian

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