Document your loss and property damage in detail. Take pictures, videos and notes of the damage to the property and any contents.
Save all documents received from your insurance company, adjuster and/or insurance agent. Keep a timeline of events documenting all communications between you and your insurance company, adjuster and/or insurance agent. This includes the date of the contact, name of the person you met with or spoke with, and a note about what was discussed.
This depends on your insurance policy. However, generally your homeowner’s insurance would cover damages to the building and its contents. It would also provide living expenses until your property is livable again.
To mitigate your damages, you can make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. For example, board up windows or patch a hole in the roof. You should give the insurance company the opportunity to inspect your property before making anything other than emergency repairs.
When you notify your insurance company of your property damage claim, you should request that an adjuster be sent out to your property. Be sure to keep a detailed record of the meetings and conversations you have with the adjuster, including date, location, name of person to who you spoke and a note of what was discussed.
As a general rule it is a good idea to consult an attorney before signing any release or waiver from your insurance company. You can contact Fleming | Nolen | Jez, L.L.P. for a free case evaluation.
