In many regions across the United States insurance companies are exiting markets or increasing rates dramatically due to the high risk of severe weather events. This may be a blessing in disguise. Homeowners who choose to self-insure or have no other option are now taking the precautionary actions that insurance carriers have been advocating to their customers but with little success. Now that ‘you’re on your own’ dollars otherwise spent on premiums can be redirected towards loss mitigation efforts and reserve funds.