Riles and Allen Insurance Recommends These Record Keeping and Claim Tips After a Storm or Flood:
Notify Your Insurance Company or Call Your Agent with Your Well Kept Records:
Once you have verified safe, notify your insurance company as soon as possible with records of your loss and submit a detailed claim. Insurance companies and their adjusters may be swamped with claims after a storm and you don’t want to be at the bottom of their lists. Promptly provide any documentation your insurer asks for to keep the claim moving along. If your agent is from Riles and Allen Insurance, that should be your first call for assistance in filing this claim quickly and efficiently, it’s what you expect from a full-service agency.
Take Inventory and Compare Records Before and After a Storm:
Take inventory of your personal possessions and property. The easiest way to smooth claims is through record keeping and claims tips we present here. To do this it is best to compare your inventory list that you prepared before the disaster to your new list – before-and-after photos and video are very helpful to insurers. Collect any receipts or proof of payment that proves the value of damaged items. (Yes, if you had a full-service agency working with you they would have suggested long ago to have this list and pictorial back up long ago)
Keep detailed records:
Document your conversations and insurance contact information. Make sure to jot down your adjuster’s name and contact information. List the dates, times and descriptions of your conversations with your insurer, adjuster and those repairing your home. (Do not trust roof repairs from guys that show up in an unmarked pick-up truck after a bad storm, use reliable certified repair services)
Get Reliable Estimates with Reliable Records:
Obtain repair estimates from trusted contractors. Get written bids – including details of materials to be used and prices on a line-by-line basis – from licensed contractors in the State of Florida. This can speed up the claims process, but more importantly protect you from scams that happen after every bad storm. Permanent repairs shouldn’t be made until insurers have inspected your losse Keep all damaged personal property until an insurance settlement has been reached.
Keep all Receipts with Records:
Keep any and all receipts, this goes without saying. If you make temporary repairs or have to relocate from your home while it is being repaired, keep records of your expenses since they are likely to be covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy. If you do not keep receipts you can almost be assured you will not be reimbursed.
Negotiate Using Good Records:
If you don’t think you’ve been offered a fair settlement, don’t be afraid to negotiate with your insurer. If you can’t come to an agreement, discuss your options with your agent. Riles and Allen Insurance agents are with you every step of the way.
Call Riles and Allen Insurance today to talk to a live agent about all your Homeowners Insurance needs today.
