Hurricane Preparedness
Your safety is our top priority
Time is of the essence when a hurricane or tropical storm is imminent. Act now to make sure you can weather it.
And remember, we’re here if you need us. After a loss, the fastest and easiest way to report your claim is online or through the Amica Mobile App . If you have an online account, make sure you’re ready to connect with us via either self-service tool.
Dont have an online account? Create one now.
Before-the-storm preparedness
Know whether you’ll need to evacuate.
Contact your local government management office, or check here, to find out whether you live in a hurricane evacuation area. Learn the best evacuation routes, and keep a current map in your car in case you have to take unfamiliar roads and the maps system on your smartphone or in your car isn’t working. If you don’t have your own transportation, arrange for a ride in case you’re ordered to evacuate. Prepare an emergency supply kit for your car with extra keys, food, water, auto supplies, a first-aid kit and more. Finally, be sure to fill your car’s gas tank so you don’t have to hunt for gas while evacuating.
Know your community’s warning system and emergency shelter locations. Download the Emergency App for iPhone or Android. Follow NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center on social media, and tune in to local news.
Make an emergency kit.
As you prepare for a hurricane, make sure you have enough water and nonperishable food for each family member and pet to last from three days to two weeks, depending on your situation. Also include extra clothes, first aid, essential medications, blankets, flashlights, batteries (regular and phone), tools for emergency repairs, important documents that are unavailable electronically. Check the entire list.
While you’re at it, store contacts for family, emergency services, friends, neighbors and your insurance company in your phone.
Get your house ready.
Ensure that your gutters are free from buildup and debris, so they don’t overflow from the heavy rains. Adjust or add extensions to downspouts to direct rainwater away from your home’s foundation.
Put lawn furniture, bikes, trash cans, toys and other small, lightweight items inside your house or store them in a shed.
Check with your local utility company(ies) about steps you should take to protect your home while you’re away.
If you don’t have hurricane shutters, cover windows with 5/8-inch plywood that’s cut to fit and ready to install as a last-minute alternative.
Limit flood damage by moving as much as you can to a higher floor. If possible, place major appliances on concrete blocks above expected flood levels.
Plan for a power outage by charging cellphones and other electronic devices. It’s a good idea to have a backup battery, too. Stock up on ice and coolers, and fill sinks, tubs and other clean containers with water for drinking and hygiene. Also have extra cash on hand, since ATMs may not work.
After the storm
If you waited out the storm at home, monitor local news and weather before you head outside. If you’re not at home, return only when authorities say it’s safe. Stay clear of floodwater and downed wires, and evacuate the area immediately if you smell gas.
Wear thick-soled shoes, long pants and work gloves, and use a flashlight (not candles, in case of a gas leak) during cleanup.
Dry and disinfect all materials in the house to prevent mold and mildew.
Review the Homeowner's Checklist for Water and Flood Damage Cleanup.
Need to file a claim?
If you have storm damage or lost food due to spoilage, log in to your Amica.com account and report what’s happened. You can even upload photos. We’ll confirm receipt and assign your claim to the right handler, who will reach out to you directly.
Or call us at 800-242-6422
General assistance is available online 24/7 through the Amica Virtual Assistant (AVA), which you can access by clicking the “Need Help?” button on Amica.com or the Amica Mobile App. Representatives are available to chat online Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. ET.
You can also use our online self-service tools to stay up to date on your claim. You’ll be able to:
- Upload and view claims documents
- Upload photos of the damage to your home
- Sign up for text and email notifications
- Contact your claim handler
Need additional help after a disaster?
Ready to make repairs?
Take advantage of our Home Repair Assistance Program for customer claim referrals, or our Consumer Service Program for nonclaim referrals, to repair storm damage without the hassle. Through Contractor Connection, you’ll be matched with trusted contractors in your area who are financially stable, licensed, insured and able to perform quality work.
On the other hand, if you prefer to use someone else, here are some helpful tips for hiring a reputable contractor and ensuring your project goes smoothly. And when making repairs or rebuilding, incorporate hurricane preparedness and avoid repeat damage by investing in stronger building materials.
Your Policy, Policy Declarations or Amended Declarations in effect on the date of loss is the primary source of reference for your coverage, coverage limits and deductible amounts.
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