The following tips may be helpful when filing and settling an insurance claim following a disaster. Remember, you bought insurance to take care of emergencies and you should be satisfied with the way insurance companies honor their part of the contract.
1. Contact your insurance agent as quickly as possible. Let them know about your losses. If you are relocated temporarily, provide the address and phone number where you can be reached. The claim process may begin in one of two ways. Your insurance company may send a claim form for you to complete or an adjuster may visit your home first, before you are asked to fill out any forms.
2. Take pictures of the damage, if possible, before beginning repairs. If you repair small items such as TV antennas, window covering or fences before the adjuster arrives, it may be difficult to prove the damage. Pictures can also be used as evidence for tax deductions.
3. Protect your property from further damage or theft. Patch roofs temporarily. Cover broken windows or holes in walls with plywood, canvas or plastic. If household furnishings are exposed to weather, move them to a safe location for storage. Save receipts for what you spend and submit them to your insurance company for reimbursement. Do not make permanent repairs without first consulting your agent. Unauthorized permanent repairs may not be reimbursed. Continue Reading
