Insurance Claims After a Tornado

Tornado season is once again upon us. If you have been hit by the recent storms, do you know what to expect from your insurance company? Many people don't know what is covered and what is not. You as the insured have responsibilities as well. Here are some helpful tips to know before talking to your insurance company.

Tornado claim tip #1

Save all receipts. Most people know that motel rooms are covered claims if you can't stay at home. Did you know that food and any necessities you need to buy might be covered as well? Insurance companies will require a receipt for any claims. It is always important to save any receipts, no matter how small. The item must be within reason, so don't run out and buy a mink coat and expect to be reimbursed.

Tornado claim tip #2

You have a responsibility to try to protect what is insured from further harm. An example of this would be if you have a broken window you need to cover it to keep rain or animals from getting in and causing further damage. You must try to do what you can to protect the property. Never put yourself in harms way! If going back into the area could be dangerous, don't do it.

Tornado claim tip #3

If your car was damaged and you have comprehensive coverage with car rental, call your insurance company right away. Most claims departments have someone available 24 hours a day. They can usually schedule a rental car for you immediately. You don't want to wait until the next day to find that there are no rental cars left.

Tornado claim tip #4

If you have not made a video of your household belongings close your eyes and picture each room. Start a list for each room of the house and ask all of your family members to write down any items they can remember. Keep adding to the list as items come to mind. Ask friends and family members to go through pictures that you have sent them that might show part of the house. The background of these pictures might show items you forgot. Don't forget things like linens, pictures, lamps etc. They might be small dollar amounts but they all add up.

Tornado claim tip #5

When you are making your claim, don't forget any food spoiled in your refrigerator or freezer. Most insurance companies will cover food spoilage up to a set amount, usually $300 to $500. Some will let you claim that amount per appliance, so if you have another freezer you can get double the limit.

Tornado claim tip #6

Insurance companies will triage the disaster and go to the houses with the most damage first. When you call in the initial claim, don't gloss over damage. Give as much detail as possible. If there is a large hole in your roof, tell them. Insurance companies need to know so they can work on getting that fixed first before any further damage happens to your property. If your house has does not have as much damage as others, be patient. It might take a while for the insurance company to go to your house. It doesn't mean they are taking your claim any less seriously than your neighbors.

During disasters many insurance companies will send a team of claims agents to stay until all their properties have been seen. It may mean weeks or even months away from their families. They are doing the best the can and will appreciate your patience.

Tornadoes leave a trail of devastation in their wake. Rebuilding after a tornado is expensive. These tips should help you get money owed to you from your insurance company so you can start rebuilding your life.

Rissa is a licensed insurance agent. This article gives advice but is not absolute. Insurance policies can vary so be sure to talk to your insurance agent.