Here at Philleo Agency Insurance, our clients rely upon us to help them save money on high-quality coverage. Of course, our relationship doesn’t end after customers buy insurance. After storms or other hazards strike, the people that we serve learn that they can truly depend upon us to help them make the most of their policy benefits. As part of this effort, take note of these steps that will help ensure a speedy recovery after property damage.
How to Recover After a Storm Strikes
Before you face a windstorm, flood, or any other hazard, you should know exactly how your policy will cover your claim. For example, most homeowners insurance policies exclude damage caused solely by flooding. If rising water or melting snow pose a risk, you may need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy.
On the other hand, your home policy will usually cover water damage that was caused because a covered hazard, like wind, damaged a roof or windows and allowed the rain inside. If you have trouble understanding your policy, contact your insurance agents with your questions.
What Should You Do First After a Storm Damages Your Home?
After a storm strikes your home, first focus upon your family’s safety. To prepare, you should keep your home stocked with such essentials as a first-aid kit, emergency rations, bottles of water, flashlights, and a battery-powered radio. In case you have to leave your home, make sure you have prepared an emergency evacuation plan and packed a bug-out back for the car.
As soon as you can return to your home, be sure to take prompt steps to secure the property. Your insurance contract will obligate you to take reasonable action to minimize damages. To get started, contact your insurance agent to begin your damage claim. If you need instructions to prepare your property or help to find qualified contractors, your insurance agent and insurer can help.
Hire the Right Repair Companies
Everybody wants to have repairs made as quickly as possible. On the other hand, you should not act so hastily that you hire the wrong people to repair your property. Sadly, unlicensed repair companies often flock to the sites of storms in order to drum up business. Very often, they try to drum up business by knocking on doors, offering cash deals, and engaging in a variety of sales techniques.
You have no guarantee that these people represent locally licensed contracting companies, have proper insurance or experience, or even intend to finish your job at all. Prudent homeowners might ask their agent for references or research repair companies on local review sites or with the Better Business Bureau. To protect yourself, never pay in cash or even sign over an insurance company check. You’re much better off if you can use a credit card because you can dispute the charge if you or an inspector uncover problems with the work.
Prepare for Recovery With Us
Your best assurance of a speedy recovery lies in doing business with the right insurance agents. If you own property in or around Brookfield, Wisconsin, you can contact us here at Philleo Agency Insurance to shop for competitive insurance rates, ask questions about your current coverage, or determine which kind of insurance that you need. If you ever do need to make a damage claim, you can rest assured that our insurance agency will stand with you during the entire process.
