Chartis, a property-casualty and general insurance organization, has expanded services for homeowners in the Massachusetts counties of Barnstable, Dukes and Nantucket thus allowing them to access the advanced disaster preparedness and post-hurricane resources of its Private Client Group’s Hurricane Protection Unit.
Access to the Unit, whose resources have been deployed in parts of Florida, New Jersey, South Carolina and New York, is complimentary for homeowners who purchase homeowners policies through Private Client Group.
Prior to hurricane season, which starts June 1, policyholders in eligible locales can request a consultation with a Chartis hurricane mitigation specialist, who will help devise a personalized plan to optimize the home’s protection. Activities may include: advice on minimizing wind and water damage from named storms; protecting valuable contents from water intrusion; prepping seasonal homes for the ensuing winter months; and emergency planning. When needed, the plan also will include action steps for moving artwork, automobiles and watercraft to safety.
During hurricane season, the Hurricane Protection Unit closely tracks and monitors the progress and projected landfall of approaching hurricanes. After landfall and access permitting, catastrophe response units are dispatched to insured residences in the affected areas to assess exterior damage.
The response team will communicate with policyholders who have evacuated to apprise them of any sustained damage. Claims staff follow up with more detailed assessments as needed. Private Client Group’s art collection management professionals may also be engaged to safely remove and transport pieces.
Todd Triano, vice president of Loss Prevention for Private Client Group, said: “Expanding our Hurricane Protection Unit to New England’s coastal areas helps us provide more well-rounded protection to those we insure. Chartis is committed to helping our clients take proactive steps to lessen the chance of property damage.”