As hurricane season approaches, families across The Gulf Coast face the annual challenge of preparing their homes and loved ones for potential storms. While stocking up on batteries and bottled water is a start, true preparedness involves securing both your property and your peace of mind. That’s where a summer insurance checklist comes in.

At Van Dyke Rankin Insurance, we believe proactive planning is the best defense. This storm season, take the time to review your insurance policies, protect your property, and create a comprehensive family evacuation plan. Here’s your step-by-step guide to get started.

 

1. Review Your Insurance Coverage

Start with your home and auto insurance policies. Make sure your coverage includes common storm-related risks such as wind, hail, flooding, and vehicle damage.

Ask yourself:

  • Are your deductibles manageable in case of a claim?
  • Do you have updated replacement values for your home and belongings?
  • Is flood insurance included, or should it be added?

Scheduling a consultation with a trusted advisor ensures you’re not left with costly gaps in coverage during a critical time.

people conversing in a professional setting

2. Create a Home Inventory

In the aftermath of a storm, having a detailed inventory is essential for filing accurate insurance claims.

Walk through each room of your home and:

  • Photograph or video major items
  • List purchase dates and estimated values
  • Store receipts or appraisals when possible

Save a digital copy of your inventory in the cloud or on a secure flash drive for easy post-storm access.

someone writing in a journal with a laptop on a desk

3. Don’t Forget the Vehicles

Your car is just as vulnerable as your house during a hurricane.

Make sure you:

  • Park vehicles in a garage or covered area
  • Fill your gas tank before the storm
  • Review auto insurance to confirm it covers flood or storm damage
  • Move your vehicle to higher ground if flooding is a risk

car involved in a car accident with a tree branch on the hood

4. Prepare a Family Evacuation Plan

Having a family-centered emergency strategy is crucial.

For families in College Station and surrounding areas, this can include:

  • Identifying multiple evacuation routes
  • Agreeing on a meeting point
  • Preparing a “go bag” with essentials like medication, documents, flashlights, and pet supplies
  • Assigning roles to each family member

Make sure children know how to contact other family members and understand the plan if separated.

various medical and emergency equipment on a desk

5. Store Policy Documents for Quick Access

In an emergency, you won’t have time to search for your insurance paperwork.

Digitize and store copies of:

  • Home and auto policies
  • Health and life insurance documents
  • Personal IDs and emergency contacts

Use cloud storage or a password-protected USB drive. Also, consider printing hard copies and sealing them in a waterproof folder for your emergency kit.

Be Proactive—Schedule a Consultation

Whether you’re in Bryan, Navasota, or College Station, storm season doesn’t have to catch you off guard. Van Dyke Rankin Insurance is here to help you review your coverage, update policies, and answer any questions before the clouds roll in.

Now is the time to schedule your consultation—so you and your family can weather the season with confidence.

About Van Dyke Rankin & Company

Van Dyke Rankin & Company is a trusted commercial real estate firm serving Bryan, College Station, and the greater Brazos Valley region. With decades of experience and deep roots in the local community, our team specializes in commercial brokerage, property management, and investment real estate. Our client-first approach and commitment to integrity have made us a leader in Southeast Central Texas commercial real estate. Learn more at vandykerankin.com.