The storm has passed, but it has left devastation in its wake. You couldn't help that you were in the path of destruction. You may have lost many of your belongings and your life has been torn apart. You expect your insurance company to help you pick up the pieces, but what happens if they drag their feet or deny your claim?
You can't afford to be left in the rubble, waiting for the insurance company to finally pay your claim so that you can rebuild your life. If you want to get your Hurricane Irene insurance claim paid, you need to pay attention to the following 7 insider tips.
- Contact the insurance company immediately - Insurance companies generally handle claims in a first-come, first-served manner. Contact them as soon as possible to report your claim, even if you aren't fully sure of the extent of the damage. Also, keep detailed records of all communication with the insurance company. Email is one of the best ways to do this, as you will have a paper trail of all conversations. If you can't communicate through email, keep a detailed record of all phone calls and conversations.
- Take pictures - Pictures are one of the most important pieces of evidence you can have, as they aren't easily disputable. Make sure to take photos of each and everything that was damaged, especially before making repairs.
- Make necessary repairs as soon as possible - Make the repairs that are necessary to prevent further damage to your home or business, including water extraction, roof repairs or window replacement.
- Keep detailed records - Along with keeping records of your communication with the insurance company, keep detailed records of all expenses, including the cost of necessary repairs, living expenses, and food.
- Compile an inventory - If you don't already have a home inventory, you need to jog your memory to make one. Look for photos of your home before it was damaged to show the adjuster. Also, if possible, do not throw out damaged items until the adjuster sees them.
- Get a second opinion - If you are having trouble getting your claim paid or feel like you're not getting enough to cover your damages, don't hesitate to get a second opinion from a public adjuster.
- Hire an attorney - If you feel like you are in over your head, are getting the run-around, or are not receiving the compensation to which you are entitled, you need to contact a hurricane damage attorney.
After a serious disaster, insurance companies are drowning with claims and are looking for ways to bail out on their obligations. If your case is getting the run-around or if you feel like you are being shortchanged, you need to fight back. Contact The Voss Law Firm today to speak with an experienced hurricane damage lawyer today. Also be sure to order a copy of our free book, Disputes With Your Insurance Company - What All Consumers Need to Know, to learn more about your rights to compensation after damage from Hurricane Irene.
