Flood insurance is a must for Texas homeowners and especially for those of us who live along the Houston Gulf Coast. So you’re a responsible homeowner, you’ve got flood insurance. What else can you do to prepare for hurricane season?

Beyond flood insurance, there are several things that homeowners can do to minimize losses occurred from a hurricane or flooding and at the very least make the process of picking up the pieces smoother. Taking a household inventory is one of the first steps you should take after purchasing flood insurance.

Contents for Consideration

• Appliances
• Entertainment equipment
• Electronics
• Major home furnishings
• Jewelry (appraised)
• Artwork (appraised)
• Musical instruments
• Sports equipment
• Tools and lawn equipment

What to Document

You will want to take down the brand name, serial number and purchase price for each item as it applies. Also, it’s good to keep receipts on

all major purchases. Have collectibles, artwork or jewelry appraised in preparation.

Keep a Visual Record

Take photos or videos of your home and contents. You will want to keep both written and visual inventories in a safe deposit box or somewhere secure outside of the home.

Remember, there are two types of flood insurance coverage: building coverage and contents coverage. If you’re renting or live in a condo or apartment, you can take advantage of flood insurance as well. Check with your Texas insurance agent to make sure that you and your family are prepared!