Chartis Expands Hurricane Protection Services to Private Client Group Policyholders

Chartis today announced that homeowners in the Massachusetts counties of Barnstable, Dukes and Nantucket can now access the advanced disaster preparedness and post-hurricane resources of its Private Client Group’s Hurricane Protection Unit(R). Access to the Unit, whose resources have been successfully deployed in parts of Florida, New Jersey, South Carolina and New York, is complimentary for homeowners who purchase homeowners policies through Private Client Group.

Published on May 18, 2010

Private Client Group's Hurricane Protection Unit assists policyholders with pre-season preparations and responds in a hurricane’s aftermath with repair resources that often become scarce post-storm.

Prior to hurricane season, which officially 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.

“Expanding our Hurricane Protection Unit to New England’s coastal areas helps us provide more well-rounded protection to those we insure,” said Todd Triano, Vice President of Loss Prevention for Private Client Group. “Chartis is committed to helping our clients take proactive steps to lessen the chance of property damage.”

While the services of the Hurricane Protection Unit are offered at no additional cost to the policyholder, enrollment is required. For more information on the Hurricane Protection Unit, please contact Todd Triano at 908-679-3066 or todd.triano@chartisinsurance.com. You can also visit www.chartisinsurance.com/pcg.