SERVPRO: Tips to File an Insurance Claim for a Smooth Experience

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The article by SERVPRO lists down the tips that property owners can follow while making their insurance claim after a storm damage event.

Tips for insurance claims after storm damage

As mother nature wreaks havoc on homes and businesses alike, the path to restoration of property and normal life may seem daunting. One of the major tasks that lie before property owners is filing for insurance claims. SERVPRO shares tips to make the best of insurance claims after a storm damage event:

1. Mitigate the damage

Protect the property from further damage but refrain from making any major restoration or repair work to the property before contacting the insurance company. Document all expenditures related to repairing and overheard living expenses in case of displacement. 

2. Choose an experienced restorer 

Research and hire a professional storm damage restoration company like SERVPRO. Not only will a professional team provide an accurate damage and repair estimate but will also help with insurance claims. Make sure the contractor hired to repair the damage is reputable, established, licensed, bonded, and insured. Beware of out-of-state “storm chasers” ? contractors who swoop into town after a big storm. 

3. Review the policy

Knowledge is a powerful weapon. Acquire an in-depth understanding of the policy, how to proceed, and what to expect help in a fruitful claim discussion. Since every insurance policy and claim is different, reviewing the policy gives better clarity.

4. Contact the insurer quickly

Provide the insurer with the policy number, latest phone number, and email address. Give an accurate description of the extent of the property damage and any special needs. A claim should promptly be started and the insurance adjuster’s visit scheduled. In case of a flood insurance claim, reach out to the agent who sold the policy to file the claim. Document every conversation with the time, date, and name of the representative spoken to.

5. Document the damage

Click photographs and document the details of damaged items, including the date of purchase and approximate value—and collect receipts, if any. Many companies request an inventory of the items. Survey the house and document every item, including high-value ones, room-by-room. 

6. Check before discarding

Take pictures of damaged items that need to be discarded for safety as per the local municipality rules. The insurance adjuster usually needs to see the damaged item physically or in pictures.

7. Stay updated

Remain alert about the status of the insurance claim filed. Most insurance companies use SMS/text message alerts for a claim filed, estimate availability, and payment made.  

8. Keep a claim diary 

In all the flurry of activity post a storm incident, things may become blurry and confusing. Pen down everything in a claim notebook to ensure nothing goes amiss:

• All calls about the claim - name, title, and contact information; and the date, time, and issues discussed. 
• Notes from every phone conversation 
• Recap of insurance adjuster’s visit, including name, date, and notes about the inspection
• List of any expenses incurred till date, including receipts

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Hurst-Euless-Bedford is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Hurst, Euless, Bedford, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For storm damage restoration services, call SERVPRO® of Hurst-Euless-Bedford today at (817) 595-0004 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com