‘Do not sign it’: Action 9 gives insurance tips to help homeowners navigate Hurricane Nicole

As Hurricane Nicole approaches Florida, there are some important insurance tips Action 9 wants you to keep in mind.

It’s important to have your homeowner’s policy handy and take pictures or videos of your belongings and the exterior of your home. If you’re taking a video of your contents, narrating details about what you’re recording could help you later on if you need to make a claim.

LIVE UPDATES: Central Florida’s coastline pummeled by wind, waves as TS Nicole approaches the state

Insurance expert Tom Cotton said most policies require the homeowner to do what they can when it’s safe, to minimize damage after the storm.

Cotton warns consumers to be aware of contractors making empty promises and using certain contracts that could hurt the homeowner in the long run.

“People from all over the country will be flocking into Florida. If they hand you a contract and it says assignment of benefits or anything similar to assignment of benefits, do not sign it because that transfers your rights as the policyholder to a third party, which means they control the money.” Cotton said homeowners should contact their insurance company or agent before signing anything.

Again, if you need to make minor repairs to prevent further damage, wait until the storm completely passes. Safety is always the top priority.

Video: Osceola County residents flooded by Ian fear more damage from Nicole Osceola County leaders are keeping a close eye on Tropical Storm Nicole. (James Tutten, WFTV.com/WFTV)

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