Hurricane Claim Preparation Tips for Property Owners
This list below offers some important tips for our industry friends and clients’ employees/staff affected by a hurricane who are starting the claim process for their personal hurricane losses. Claims are unique to each loss and coverage situation and this is not an exhaustive list.
Take ample photographs and videos to memorialize ALL damage (however small), especially before
mitigation efforts have begun
– Show the full loss in its initial state
– Photos/Videos
of water levels indicating how far it rose around the home should be clearly captured. If possible contrast
pre-hurricane photos with post-hurricane water levels/wind damages
– Slowly walk the perimeter of the
site and take a 360° video of each area
- Focus on specific damages, especially to porous materials where the visible damage can dry over time.
- Time stamps to photos and videos.
Mitigate the loss / protect undamaged property from further loss or damage
– Separate
damaged property from undamaged property
– Remove all water-damaged porous materials as well as any other
materials that mold can grow on to prevent further damage, but don’t discard anything unless first
confirmed by the insurance adjuster.
Immediately report your loss to your insurance company and or insurance agent
– Your
insurance company will be inundated with claim intake, be vigilant in following up until a claim/loss number
has been issued
Review your insurance policy with your insurance agent or
representative
– Request a fully updated version of your current insurance policy.
– Read
the steps listed in your policy to submit a claim. Be sure to follow the specific instructions and
memorialize each step in writing. Pay particular attention to "notice" and timing
requirements.
Create an initial list or inventory of damaged items
– Itemize all damages from the
event.
– Include as much detail as possible.
– For example, take pictures of tags, and bar codes;
record manufacturers' descriptions and serial numbers.
Connect with reputable Emergency
Services / Restoration Contractors
– Selecting a qualified contractor to help remove flood
waters, and stabilize environmental issues dry out your property is critical.
– Be wary of scammers,
those looking to profit of your loss. Always verify contractors with state and local agencies. Do NOT pay
any company upfront. Reputable firms will not ask for a deposit and return later to perform work.
Prepare for Insurance Adjuster site visit
– Walk your adjuster through your property to
answer questions related to the loss
– Have your policy with you for reference and ask your adjuster how
the terms and conditions will be applied. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Have your question list
prepared.
– Point out all areas of damage to your adjuster, from the slightest cracks to missing roof
tiles.