What to Do If You Have Storm Damage

What to Do If You Have Storm Damage: A Guide to Filing an Insurance Claim

With a storm on the horizon, it’s important to be prepared in case your property suffers damage. Filing an insurance claim can feel overwhelming in the aftermath of a storm, but with the right steps, you can make the process smoother and get back on track sooner. Here’s what you need to know if your home or property sustains storm damage and how to navigate the claims process.

1. Prioritize Safety First

After the storm has passed, the first thing you should do is ensure your safety and the safety of your loved ones. Check for any immediate hazards such as downed power lines, flooding, or structural damage. Avoid going inside if there’s visible damage to your home’s foundation, roof, or walls, as it could be unsafe.

If possible, take photographs from a safe distance of any external damage to your property before moving to a safer location. For more information on post-storm safety measures, read this guide from FEMA.

2. Document the Damage

Once it’s safe to do so, thoroughly document the damage to your home, property, and belongings. Take clear photos and videos of the affected areas, including the exterior and interior of your home. This documentation is crucial for the claims process as it provides visual proof of the damage.

• Capture photos of roof damage, fallen trees, or water damage.
• Don’t forget to document damage to personal items like electronics, furniture, or appliances.

Tip: Use your phone’s timestamp feature on photos, if available, to create a record of when the damage was documented. For more tips on documenting damage, visit the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).

3. Prevent Further Damage

After documenting the damage, take steps to prevent further harm to your property. This might involve covering broken windows with tarps or boarding them up, patching leaks in the roof, or shutting off water or electricity if there’s a risk of flooding. However, avoid making any major repairs until your insurance adjuster has assessed the damage.

Keep receipts for any materials or services you need to purchase to temporarily protect your home, as these may be reimbursed by your insurance company. You can find more information about emergency repairs and mitigation from Ready.gov.

4. Contact Your Insurance Company or Agent

Reach out to your insurance provider or your insurance agent as soon as possible to report the damage. Your agent is your advocate and can help you navigate the claims process. They can assist in explaining your coverage, filing the claim on your behalf, and guiding you through each step to ensure a smoother experience.

Be ready to provide:

• Your policy number
• Details about the damage
• Photos or videos of the damage
• A list of damaged items or property

If you’re unsure about the claims process or have specific coverage questions, don’t hesitate to ask your agent for assistance. They can help expedite the process and make sure you’re receiving all eligible benefits.

5. Schedule an Inspection

Your insurance company will likely send an adjuster to inspect the damage and estimate the cost of repairs. During this visit, show the adjuster any areas of concern you documented, and provide a detailed list of damaged items if possible. Having your own contractor’s estimate on hand can also be helpful for comparison.

Note: If you make any temporary repairs before the adjuster’s visit, be sure to provide receipts and before-and-after photos to show the extent of the damage.

6. Keep Records of All Communication

Throughout the claims process, keep detailed records of all communication with your insurance company. Save emails, take notes of phone conversations, and keep a log of any updates. This can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure you stay on top of your claim.

7. Stay Calm and Patient

Filing a claim can take time, especially after a large-scale storm where many homes and businesses are affected. While it’s natural to feel anxious, staying patient and working closely with your insurance provider will help ensure a smoother process.

8. Review Your Policy for Coverage

Before the storm hits, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with your homeowner’s insurance policy. Know what types of storm damage are covered (wind, hail, flooding) and understand any deductibles you may need to meet before coverage kicks in. Knowing what to expect can give you peace of mind.

However, it’s important to note that when a storm is actively forming or approaching, changes to your policy, such as increasing coverage or adding new protections, cannot be bound until the storm passes. This is a standard industry practice meant to prevent last-minute adjustments based on an imminent threat. If you haven’t already, be sure to review your policy and make any necessary changes before storm season begins.

We’re Here to Help

At John Douglas Insurance we understand that storm damage can be stressful, and we’re here to support you through the process. Our team of experienced agents is available to answer any questions and guide you in filing your claim quickly and efficiently. Feel free to contact us at 850-769-7785 or at [email protected] if you need assistance.

Stay safe, and remember, we’re here when you need us most.