Act Quickly: The Clock Starts Now
When severe storms hit, time becomes a critical factor in the recovery process. As soon as the storm passes, the countdown begins for homeowners and drivers who need to take immediate action. Most insurance policies require that damage be reported promptly, so it’s essential not to delay in starting your claim. Taking quick steps can help ensure you’re properly reimbursed by your insurance company and prevent further damage to your home or vehicle.
Document Everything Thoroughly
One of the most important steps in the claims process is documenting all visible damage. This includes taking detailed photos and videos of the affected areas. If you have pre-storm photos, capturing before-and-after images can be extremely helpful. Be sure to document all damage to your home, roof, siding, windows, and vehicle.
For hail damage, include close-up shots of dents, cracks, and shattered glass. To provide clear evidence of the size of hail impacts, place a coin or ruler next to the damaged areas. These visual records will serve as crucial evidence when filing your insurance claim.
Make a List of Damaged Items
Creating an itemized list of what was damaged or destroyed is another essential step. Include furniture, electronics, roof shingles, siding, car panels, and any other items affected by the storm. For each item, note estimated values, model numbers, and purchase dates if available. Also, record where each item was located when the damage occurred. This detailed list will help support your claim and provide a clear overview of the losses.
Protect Your Property from Further Damage
If it’s safe to do so, take immediate steps to protect your property from additional harm. Cover broken windows or holes in the roof with tarps or plastic sheeting to keep out rain. Board up broken doors or garage openings. Move undamaged items away from affected areas inside your home. These actions not only help protect your home but also demonstrate to your insurer that you are taking responsible steps to prevent further damage.
Important: Do not throw away damaged items until your insurance adjuster has seen them, unless they pose a safety hazard. Keeping these items intact ensures that the adjuster can accurately assess the extent of the damage.
Save All Receipts and Records
Keep receipts for any emergency repairs you make, such as boarding up windows or hiring a roofer for temporary fixes. Save invoices for replacement items if you had to buy anything urgently. These documents will be necessary when seeking reimbursement from your insurance company.
Report the Damage to Your Insurance Company
As soon as possible, contact your insurance company or file a claim online. Have your policy number ready and provide a detailed description of the damage along with the approximate time the storm hit. Mention any immediate repairs you made and offer documentation. Some companies may allow you to upload photos directly through their website or mobile app, making the process more efficient.
Special Tips for Hail Damage Claims
When dealing with hail damage, there are some specific considerations to keep in mind. Don’t wash your car until after the adjuster inspects it—hail dents can become less visible on a clean surface. For roofing and siding damage, consider having a professional contractor inspect for issues that may not be visible from the ground. Hail can sometimes cause leaks that develop days later, so watch for new water stains or drips even if everything looked okay at first.
During the Claims Process
Keep a record of every interaction with your insurance company, including names, dates, and summaries of conversations. Ask for a copy of the claim report. If the damage is extensive, you may want to consider hiring a public adjuster—a professional who works on your behalf to ensure a fair settlement.
Final Thoughts
Storm damage is stressful, but by staying organized and proactive, you can make the claims process smoother and faster. Take clear photos, report everything quickly, and keep all records. If you’re unsure about any part of your policy or the claims process, don’t hesitate to ask your insurance provider for clarification.
And remember: safety first. If your home is unsafe to stay in due to structural damage or flooding, contact your insurer about temporary housing coverage, which many homeowners’ policies include.
