Insurance: Steps to Take After a Disaster
Disaster Relief
This article provides information about steps to take after a disaster and tips for working with your insurer. These tips are from Lone Star Legal Aid.
1. Review your insurance policy deadlines.
-
Find a copy of your policy. Your agent can provide one if needed.
-
Carefully read your policy.
-
Know the deadlines for giving notice of loss to your insurance company.
2. Review which losses are covered.
Think about all insurance policies that might cover a loss. This includes property, car, and health.
3. Find the correct address to send notice of your claim.
Look at your policy. Find the address where you send a written notice.
4. Follow up after sending written notice of your claim.
Give written notice of loss to your insurance company. It is a good idea to call the company immediately. Then follow up with a written notice. The written notice is a MUST.
5. Take photos and videos.
If possible, take photos and videos of property damage before making repairs.
6. Make a detailed list of damaged and destroyed property.
Make a list of damaged or lost items. Ask your insurance agent about any specific required forms.
7. Keep all your receipts.
Keep receipts for any expenses to repair your property. Keep receipts for extra living costs such as hotels and meals away from home.
8. Give the list to your insurer.
Give your insurance company a list of all expenses. Find out if you need approval before spending money or making any contracts.
9. Review your policy for additional special deadlines.
Check your insurance policy for deadlines or special requirements. You must follow all the rules listed in your policy as much as possible. For example, flood insurance has different rules. Proof of loss for flood insurance must be submitted within 60 days unless the deadline is extended.
10. Send your insurance all the proof of losses you’ve gathered
Send in proof of loss and other papers the policy requires to obtain coverage and payments from the insurance company. This includes photos and receipts.
11. Request advance payments.
Request partial or advance payments from your insurance company as needed.
12. Take detailed notes when you speak with insurance representatives.
Keep notes whenever you talk with your insurance company, agent, or broker. This includes the dates and times and the people in the conversation.
13. Keep copies of all written communication.
- Keep copies of all letters, emails, etc., sent to your insurance company or agent.
- Keep copies of all letters, emails, etc., that you get from your insurance company or agent.
14. Carefully review release statements when insurance money is paid.
Review checks, payments, letters, emails, etc., from your insurance company. Make sure there is not any language releasing or giving up any claims. Discuss with your agent if you are in doubt. You also may need to talk to a lawyer.
15. Follow-up
Follow up with your insurance company about your claim.
16. Seek legal help for unfair treatment.
Get legal help if you believe you are being treated unfairly.
Related Articles
-
Disaster Manual
Information on how to address legal problems resulting from a disaster -
Renters' Rights and Disaster Relief
This article explains your rights as a tenant after a disaster. -
Flood Claims - Disaster Relief
This article explains flood insurance, including what it does and does not cover. -
Home Repair Scams - Disaster Relief
Identify and avoid home repair scams. -
Property Loss Claims - Disaster Relief
This article discusses property loss claims in Texas for losses incurred from a disaster. -
Mortgage Payments After Disaster
This article explains what can happen if you do not pay your mortgage after a disaster. -
Disaster and Property Taxes
This article examines whether your property taxes can be reduced after a disaster. -
Finding Lost Pets After a Disaster
This article explains to find a lost pet after a disaster. -
Casualty Loss Tax Deductions - Disaster Relief
Tax deductions may be available to you after a disaster. -
Your Employment Rights During Disaster
This article tells you about your rights as an employee during and after a disaster. -
Disaster Recovery for Small Business
This article explains the help available for small businesses after a disaster.