When Catastrophe Strikes . . .

Catastrophic events shake even the hardiest person.  But, it’s human nature to want to begin putting life back in order after a catastrophe strikes.  So, here are some steps to help you through the claims process.

Immediately:

• Secure the safety of your family.

• Do not enter your home unless you’re sure it’s safe.  Depending on the type of disaster, there may be exposed electrical wires, standing water or a natural gas leak.  If you have any concerns about the structural or environmental safety of your home, do not enter.

• Contact your insurance agent directly and report your claim.

• When reporting your claim have your policy number handy and be prepared to provide your contact information so your adjuster can reach you throughout the claim process.  It’s important that you provide all your phone numbers, even if they are temporary.

Once the Claims Process Has Begun:

• Take account of your loss and separate the damaged from the undamaged personal property.

• If available, provide your adjuster with photos or video recordings of the loss site prior to the event.  This will assist your adjuster with the damage evaluation process.

• If necessary, have a qualified repair service or contractor make temporary repairs to prevent additional loss.  Be sure to obtain a bill or invoice for this service so you can present it to your adjuster for consideration of reimbursement.

• If bills were lost or destroyed due to the damage, contact your creditors to establish a workable solution.  Discuss payment issues with them directly; creditors usually appreciate forthrightness.

• If your home is uninhabitable, check with your agent or check your policy to determine if you have coverage for Additional Living Expenses.

• Save all receipts to document your increase in living expenses while your home is uninhabitable.

• Contact the utility companies to discontinue service if your home is uninhabitable or destroyed.

Financial Concerns:

• Investigate the availability of special loans and/or grants via the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the U. S. Small Business Administration, the American Red Cross, local government agencies, private lenders and philanthropic organizations.

• Call to apply for federal disaster aid at 1-800-462-9029 (or 1-800-462-7585 for TDD Telecommunications Device for the Deaf) or online at FEMA.  You’ll be required to provide your social security number, insurance information and the extent of the damage to your property.  Be sure to obtain a control number that is assigned to your application.

Courtesy of Tidbits of Douglas County

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