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 General Tips for Dealing With Insurance
General
Insurance may be one of the few consolations you have after the disaster. Adjusters from across the country will come to the area. Companies are setting up toll-free hot lines and urging homeowners, renters and drivers to make claims. Listen to your radio, look in your local newspaper or refer to your policy for contact information.First Step:
Contact your agent as quickly as possible. Tell the insurer you’re in an emergency situation.Second Step:
Find and read your homeowners or renter’s insurance policy. All policies are not the same. If you have a mortgage, the lender will have your homeowners policy.Policies may pay for:- Actual value/replacement value of damaged property
- Temporary repairs to protect your home
- Additional living expenses if you’re displaced
Food damage caused by rising water may be covered under Flood Insurance. If a tree falls on your house insurance might pay for removal. Ask your agent for further information about coverageThird Step:
If possible, get detailed estimates for repairs. Take photographs or videos of the damaged areas.Only make repairs necessary to prevent further damage to your home or business. Don’t make permanent repairs without consulting your agent. Keep receipts for any work done.Checks:
You might get two checks from the insurance company for your loss. Some policies allow companies to pay up front for the depreciated value of the loss and again after repairs.Insurance 1-800 Numbers:| Aetna | 1-800-872-3862 | | Allstate | 1-800-736-2242 | | CNA | 1-800-262-1113 | | Geico | 1-800-841-3000 | | Liberty Mutual | 1-800-526-1547 | | Nationwide | 1-800-421-3535 | | Progressive | 1-800-274-4499 | | Prudential | 1-800-437-3535 | | State Farm | 1-800-326-2431 |
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