January 2026 Newsletter

Written By Tamara Baez

Welcome to the 2026 edition of the Hillis Adjustment Agency newsletter. As we enter a new year, our priority remains the same, to advocate for policyholders, provide education, and ensure homeowners and business owners understand their insurance rights before a loss occurs, not after.

This newsletter is designed to be practical, resourceful, and easy to reference throughout the year.

2026 Preparedness Guide

Being proactive is the best way to minimize damage and speed up the claims process.

Season by Season Prevention

Winter

  • Insulate pipes in unheated areas.

  • Clean gutters before freeze cycles.

  • Check attic ventilation to avoid ice dams.

Spring

  • Inspect roof shingles for lifting or loss.

  • Test sump pumps and drainage systems.

  • Trim branches hanging over structures.

Summer

  • Hurricane season in the Carolinas and Florida

  • Update home inventory photos.

  • Reinforce outdoor structures.

  • Know your policy hurricane deductible.

Fall

  • Clean gutters and dryer vents.

  • Service HVAC systems.

  • Inspect for small leaks before cold weather arrives.

Understanding Your Insurance Policy in 2026

Insurance policies continue to evolve and many carriers are tightening coverage language. Here are key areas all property owners should review.

Deductible Changes

Many carriers have raised wind and hail deductibles, hurricane deductibles in coastal states, and percentage based deductibles tied to dwelling coverage. Confirm whether your deductible is a flat dollar amount or a percentage of your Coverage A.

Water Damage Limitations

Policies may include strict caps on water damage, exclusions for long term seepage, and requirements for immediate mitigation. If you experience water damage, document quickly and call a mitigation company immediately.

Ordinance and Law Coverage

This coverage pays for code upgrades during repairs. If your home is older than 15 to 20 years, make sure you have adequate limits.

Resource Center for Homeowners and Realtors

Free Policy Review

We read your policy so you understand your true coverage, deductibles, exclusions, and claim deadlines.

Inspection and Claim Readiness Checklist

We provide pre claim documentation guides, photo and inventory templates, storm preparation worksheets, and preferred contractor lists including roofing, HVAC, remediation, siding, and junk removal.

Realtor Support

We help real estate agents with pre listing property assessments, claim questions during inspection objections, and guidance for damaged homes under contract.

Tamara Baez
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December 2025 Newsletter