As the Bahamas begins cleanup and recovery efforts after the devastation of Hurricane Dorian, some unfortunate east coast residents are filing insurance claims and are perhaps unsure of how to proceed with this effort. It is important to know that after a hurricane, resources and labor required for repairs and restoration can be at a premium. Reliant Adjusters, Florida’s #1 preferred choice for hurricane damage adjusters will work with you to scrutinize how your policy covers hurricane damage to determine if the loss you have sustained will be covered. Remember, we work for YOU, not your insurance company.
Here are a few hurricane claim tips to keep in mind when filing your hurricane insurance claim:
1. Know Your Insurance Policy: Read your policy carefully and know what is and is not covered. Even if you’re not sure whether something can be claimed, get in touch with your agent and/or insurance company right away. You’ll want to request a copy of your policy immediately if you don’t have one.
2. Document Your Loss: It is important that you have lots of evidence to corroborate your claim. Take pictures and videos before attempting any clean up and repair showing damaged personal property, cleanable items, structural damage, water damage, etc. Make a list of everything that was damaged including the items’ value, purchase date, and receipts if possible. Make sure to document all losses before doing any clean up or throwing things away.
3. Avoid Future Damage: Once you’ve documented the damage, you must try to prevent further avoidable damage from occurring. For example, you should board up areas of the property, put up tarps, and remove wet drywall and/or carpeting to prevent mold. Again, it’s crucial that you DO NOT throw anything away or begin cleanup or repairs until you have notified your insurance company.
4. Log Expenses: If your home is uninhabitable and you need to stay elsewhere, keep a log of Additional Living Expenses (ALE) that you incur during that period of time.
5. Estimates and Reports: Keep copies of all estimates for repairs you receive from contractors and reports from insurance and public adjusters. It’s important to consult a few contractors and ask for references and recommendations.
6. Contact Reliant Adjusters: We can help you file your hurricane insurance claim and ensure that it’s accurately assessed and paid out by your insurance provider. Contact us for additional information and advice on any hurricane damage insurance claims you have already filed or any hurricane damage claims you think you may have.