Two of the largest U.S. property/casualty insurers drummed up communications to policyholders following the passing of Hurricane Irene this week. Up to 100,000 insurance claims covering as much as $4 billion in damages are expected to be filed in the coming weeks as a result of the storm and its continuing damage, according to the
Allstate has also informed consumers to understand the flood insurance limits of coverage, since a flood policy does not take effect until 30 days after purchase. “Allstate encourages residents to consider their home's risk for flooding and talk to their local insurance agent well before the waters rise,” said the company. Further, unless the Federal Emergency Management Administration decides to extend it, there's a 30-day deadline for to file a claim.
Allstate and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) recommend the following tips for a flood insurance claim:
• Gather all relevant policy information and numbers.
• Call your insurance agent or company and make sure to mention that your damage is flood specific and you need to file a NFIP claim so your claim is processed appropriately.
• Make sure your agent and claims adjuster know how to contact you. If you are in a shelter and not easily reached, provide the name of a designated relative or point-of-contact who can reach you.
• Remove water damaged items from the home as soon as possible.
• Take lots of photos. Take photos of any water in the house and damaged personal property. Your adjuster will need evidence of the damage and damaged items (i.e. cut swatches from carpeting, curtains, chairs) to prepare your estimate.
• Inventory your home for damaged or lost items before your adjustor arrives. This will help facilitate your claim process.
Allstate’s proactive approach to educating consumers is part of their larger customer service efforts, which can serve to avoid problems with coverage questions that may present themselves down the road, such as when a deductible unknown to the claimant (in some states hurricane deductibles apply) or a dispute arises over which damages are covered.
Insurers are still reeling following Hurricane Katrina, when many homeowners complained about coverage issues and delays in claims payments.
“Slowing down the process was disagreement over what was wind damage and what was water damage,” Susan Voss, vice-president of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners,
Even before claims are filed, insurers such as
• Never use a portable gas-powered generator indoors. Exhaust from generators contain carbon monoxide and can result in CO poisoning.
• Use caution when using candles as a light source indoors. Never leave candles burning unattended and keep open flames away from curtains or flammable material.
• Be on the lookout for downed power lines. Don't turn on or use outlets or electric components that have been under water until they have been properly tested and repaired by a qualified electrician.
• Check your home for gas leaks with a flashlight, not matches or candles, to prevent igniting leaking gas or other combustible substances.
• Use your emergency water or boil tap water before drinking until you are told the water supply is safe.
• Do not wade through standing water. If you do, bathe and put on clean clothes as soon as possible.
• Avoid wild or stray animals such as snakes or dogs. Stray dogs may be hurt or afraid and may bite. Call local authorities to handle animals.
