ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´

NEW YORK, June 1, 2010 — It has been predicted that the Atlantic hurricane season, which begins today and continues until November 30, will be quite active. For reporters covering the season the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ Information Institute (I.I.I.) offers a broad array of information about hurricanes and insurance coverage issues.

Ìý

Some basics: Wind damage from hurricanes is covered under standard homeowners and business insurance policies, but may be subject to a percentage-based windstorm deductible. Damage to cars from wind is covered under the comprehensive portion of an auto insurance policy, which is an optional coverage.ÌýÌý

Ìý

Flood damage is excluded under standard homeowners and renters insurance policies. Flood insurance for homeowners and renters is available through the federal government’s National Flood ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ Program (), which is serviced by private carriers, and from a few specialty insurers. There is typically a 30-day waiting period, from the date of purchase, before a new NFIP policy goes into effect. The optional comprehensive portion of an auto insurance policy includes coverage for flood damage.

Ìý

The I.I.I.’s online resources include:

Ìý

Ìý

Ìý

To arrange an interview with an I.I.I. subject matter expert, please call the press office at 212-346-5500. The I.I.I. can also provide information on the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, and the potential insurance repercussions of the Gulf oils spill during this hurricane season.

Ìý

More information about protecting your property is available from the .

Ìý

Ìý

Ìý

Ìý