Violent thunderstorms and tornados are no strangers to the Elkhorn area. After such an event, making sure your family is safe is your first priority. Once you’ve made sure everyone is safe, the next thing to do is check for damage.
Evaluating Storm Damage
As you check out the damage done to your home, keep your insurance in mind. You should always be aware of what your homeowner’s policy covers. This means reviewing your plan often.
Walk in and around your home. Check for what kind of damage has occurred. Remember that flood damage is not usually covered under homeowners insurance policies. Wind damage should be covered.
If you notice any serious problems, take care of them right away. This could be a utility line that’s down or a smell of gas. Call the authorities for utility emergencies. Also, make temporary repairs to prevent further loss from looters, wind, rain, and animals. Take photos and video of your home as you go.
Contacting Your Insurance Representative
As soon as possible, after assessing the damage done to your home, contact your insurance agent. They’ll tell you the next steps you should take. They’ll probably also recommend:
- Avoiding cleaning up or making big repairs just yet. The adjuster needs to visit your house first.
- Beginning your search for a good contractor in the area.
- Saving receipts from any purchases you made.
In some cases, you may have to evacuate after a bad weather event. If this happens, be sure your insurance representative has a reliable way to reach you. Additionally, save any receipts you amass from hotels and other necessary purchases. Depending on your policy, these may be covered.
Hiring the Right Contractor
Good contractors in your area will be able to make the necessary repairs to your home. Still, it’s important to find the right team for the job. This is both for your protection and to ensure you abide by your insurance agency’s guidelines.
Typically, insurance companies will only make payouts for preapproved repairs from preapproved contractors. If you have any questions about who you can hire, talk to your insurance representative.
As you search for a contractor to complete your repairs, be sure to avoid scam artists. Whether you realize it or not, scammers may be praying on homeowners like you. These are usually contractors you’ve never seen before. They won’t be from Elkhorn. They may arrive right after the storm, and go door-to-door to houses that were affected. They will probably promise low prices and super-quick repairs.
Contractors like these have a history of bad workmanship. Or, they may take your money and run before they even begin working. Likewise, they are not usually insured. If they do end up working on your home and someone is hurt, they may condescend to hold you liable.
It’s always better to go with an established contractor. They should also have roots in Elkhorn or the surrounding area. Make sure the contractor has experience doing the repairs you need and has insurance. They should also be able to produce proof of their insurance and their contracting license. Finally, ask for a written estimate on repairs. This is what you will show to your insurance agent for approval.
At Henricks Wilging Insurance, we’re here for you, our customers. Our goal is to provide you with the best, most extensive coverage possible. Our knowledgeable and friendly agents are experienced at what they do. They will simplify the insurance process for you.
For more information about our home insurance policies, visit us in Elkhorn today, or give us a call.
