Mercury Insurance Shares Storm Season Checklist to Help Homeowners Stay Safe Before the Rain Hits

Simple Preventive Steps Can Save Thousands in Storm Damage and Ensure Families Are Ready for Severe Weather

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercury Insurance (NYSE: MCY) is helping homeowners prepare for storm season with a detailed checklist to review before heavy rains start falling. Flooding, high winds and infrastructure strain often accompany seasonal storms, and small preventive steps now can help avoid thousands of dollars in property damage later.

"Storm preparedness is about reducing risk before the first drop of rain falls," said Adam Bakonis, Sr. Product Manager, State for Mercury Insurance. "Homeowners can take simple, cost-effective measures today that can make a tremendous difference in protecting their families and property when storms hit."

Storm Season Checklist: What to Review

• Roof and Gutters: Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles and repair them immediately, as loose shingles can quickly become leaks. Clean gutters and downspouts so water flows away from your home. Clogged gutters are one of the top causes of storm-related water intrusion.
  
  
• Windows and Doors: Check weatherstripping, caulking and seals around all openings. Reinforce weak points with storm shutters or window film where available. Even small cracks can let in rainwater, leading to mold or structural issues.
  
  
• Foundation and Drainage: Ensure the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation. Check sump pumps and French drains for clogs and test pumps with a bucket of water to confirm they turn on automatically.
  
  
• Outdoor Items and Landscaping: Secure or bring inside patio furniture, umbrellas and garden décor. Trim back tree branches that hang over roofs or power lines — falling limbs are a leading cause of storm-related claims.
  
  
• Emergency Supplies: Keep essentials on hand: flashlights, batteries, portable phone chargers, a first-aid kit, bottled water, and several days' worth of non-perishable food. Power outages often accompany severe storms.
  
  
• Vehicles: Park cars in a garage or covered area. If not possible, avoid low-lying areas that may flood. Storm-related auto damage can be costly, and some claims may overlap with homeowners insurance deductibles.
  
  
• Insurance Coverage: Review your policy to confirm coverage for storm damage and understand deductible amounts. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that flood damage typically requires a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Check with your insurance provider to clarify what is and isn't included in your policy so there are no surprises when a storm hits.

Why Preparation Matters

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), storms cause tens of billions of dollars in property damage each year across the United States, with rainfall-related flooding among the most expensive and disruptive hazards. Early preparation helps homeowners mitigate these risks and recover more quickly after severe weather.

For more information on storm preparedness and resources to protect your home, visit http://bit.ly/46A7vow and http://bit.ly/46OOXBn.

About Mercury Insurance

Mercury Insurance (NYSE: MCY) is a multiple-line insurance carrier predominantly offering personal auto, homeowners, renters and commercial insurance through a network of independent agents in Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Texas and Virginia, as well as auto insurance in Florida. Mercury writes other lines of insurance in various states, including commercial, business owners and business auto, landlord, home-sharing, ride-hailing and mechanical protection insurance.

Since 1962, Mercury has provided customers with tremendous value for their insurance dollar by pairing ultra-competitive rates with excellent customer service, through more than 4,200 employees and a network of more than 6,340 independent agents in 11 states. Mercury has earned an "A" rating from A.M. Best, as well as "Best Auto Insurance Company" designations from Forbes and Insure.com. For more information visit www.MercuryInsurance.com or follow the company on X, Instagram or Facebook.

SOURCE Mercury Insurance