We have had some severe weather in St. Louis this Spring, bringing hail, heavy rains, winds and even tornados. Speaking with a few of our friends in the insurance industry, they tell us they are inundated with claims of storm damage.
Since storm damage is not something most prepare for, there is a huge range of emotions you can feel after seeing the damage. But the most important thing this is to keep your wits about you and stay calm at all times.
Once the storm has passed, it is ok to go outside and inspect the damage. First circle the date on your calendar to remember it for insurance purposes. Next, walk outside bringing a clipboard and camera. Document any damage with the best description you can give. Then go back in and call your insurance agent to report the damage, because the earlier you file your claim the quicker you can settle it.
If there is damage that needs emergency repair, take any steps necessary using items like plywood, ropes and tarps. Keep all receipts to submit to your insurance company and check with your insurance company before throwing away any damaged property.
And most important of all, do not hire a contractor before consulting your insurance company first. You may be approached by companies offering to tarp your house if you sign a contract now. Try to keep a level head even in this troubling time, some of these contractors may not be reputable, licensed or have the proper insurance themselves. Be sure to check references and be careful when paying an upfront deposit, until you know their business better. We suggest finding them on The Home Builders Association (HBA) of St. Louis & Eastern Missouri (www.stlhba.com) and The Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Eastern Missouri & Southern Illinois (www.stlouis.bbb.org).
Once your insurance adjuster comes out, you can present them with the list of problems you made directly after the storm. They will make their assessments and you will hear back in a few weeks.
In the meantime, you should ask you agent about your deductible in anticipation for the repairs. Also sometimes agents will approve temporary fixes.In that case you can give reputable companies likes a RIGGS a call for minor touch ups. And then once your claim is approve we can help complete the entire project. Working with a well known company will easy your mind, because most contractors will know how to work with your insurance company’s timeline and payment schedule.
It’s never fun to prepare for a storm, but it is much easier if you do. If you find yourself confused in the process, give us a call at RIGGS. We have walked countless local people from destruction to complete repair, giving them the advice they need all along the way.
