As most people know, a tornado can cause devastating damage to a home. Although the picture in our minds may be the worst-case scenario, many homes that aren’t in the direct path of destruction can receive lesser damage from flying objects or falling trees.
Of course, we aren’t in control of the weather, so if you suffer damage of any scale from a tornado it’s important to know what to expect with your claim. Our claims experts share tips and next steps when filing your insurance claim. As always, be sure to call a reputable public adjuster to be there for your best interest when you have a property damage claim we can help you reduce stress and increase your settlement.
Now, here’s how to begin to make things right again after a tornado blows through.
Don’t Wait to Call Your Insurance and Public Adjuster
There are many reasons to report weather-related damages as soon as possible. First and foremost, your insurance policy requires you to contact them immediately. After a storm, insurance companies are typically overwhelmed by all the calls, especially when dealing with something as widespread and damaging as a tornado or other natural disaster.
The sooner you call, the faster the process will go. Remember to call a public claims adjuster, such as Liberty Adjusters, ASAP. If you wait until after your claim has been evaluated, a public adjuster will likely not be able to make as much of a difference as if you called beforehand.
Read More > Why You May Regret NOT Hiring a Public Adjuster
Tornados Can Cause More than Just Wind Damage
Although the strong winds of a tornado can tear off your roof, flip your car, or damage the structural integrity of your house; after the tornado leaves, there is still a chance for more damage. If a tornado left you with a damaged roof, for example, any rain that follows would flood your house and cause extreme water damage.
This can complicate your insurance claim, as you will have to prove that the water damage was a direct result of the tornado damage. With so many caveats when filing a tornado claim, it’s best left to a professional public adjuster who can properly guide you through the claim.
After the Tornado, What Do You Need to Do?
You may think that once the storm is over, your house is in the hands of the insurance company. Many are surprised to learn that you, as the policyholder, have the responsibility of protecting your home or business from further damage. If you do not at least attempt to properly mitigate future damage, your claim could be denied because all too often, insurance doesn’t want to pay you for all the damage.
Here are some ways your insurance provider may expect YOU to prevent additional damages:
Boarding up windows and doors
Removing water damages carpet, drywall, etc. to prevent mold growth
Tarping the roof to prevent rain from entering
Hiring security to protect the property from theft
Relocation
Documenting Your Damages
If you’re going to attempt to file the claim on your own: just like preventing further damage, filing a claim requires you to document the damage properly. One of the first steps following any new damage should be to take pictures or videos of the property.
Taking the steps to document and take inventory of all damaged or destroyed items is pivotal to your success with recompensation.
Save Your Receipts
Along with documenting the damage caused by the storm, save any receipts from expenses you incurred after the storm. These may not always be reimbursable by your insurance, but it’s worth it to submit everything you can!
For example, if you had to pay for any items to mitigate damage, such as tarp or boarding, you most likely could get that reimbursed. No matter how expensive; from clean water to a hotel stay, always keep your receipts.
Extra Coverage May Be Needed
Depending on your policy, there may be aspects of your damage that aren’t completely covered, such as mold. Be sure to fully understand your policy before meeting with your insurance, and preferably before any damage that may occur. There is a chance you have items that aren’t included, and therefore won’t be covered in your claim.
Give us a call with any questions you may have about your claim at 813-922-5129, Liberty Adjusters will help you understand your policy completely and get the settlement you deserve!
Taking Care of Tornado Damage
If you have suffered damage from a tornado or any other natural disaster, it can be overwhelming, to say the least! Seeing all these steps may be intimidating, but it is always good to be prepared. Liberty Adjusters is here to help.
If you have any questions about your insurance policy or need to file a claim, call our Florida public adjusters today at 813-922-5129!