Step 1: Make Sure Everyone Is Safe

Before assessing your property:

• Check on family members and neighbors.

• Follow instructions from local officials.

• Stay away from downed power lines.

• Avoid standing floodwater.

• Do not enter severely damaged structures until they've been inspected.

• Wear protective clothing, gloves, and sturdy shoes.

No insurance claim is more important than your safety.

Step 2: Document the Damage

Once it's safe, thoroughly document your property before making repairs.

Take photographs and videos of:

• Roof damage

• Broken windows

• Flooding

• Water damage

• Fallen trees

• Damaged fences

• Damaged vehicles

• Interior damage

• Personal belongings

The more documentation you have, the easier it may be to explain the extent of the damage.

Step 3: Prevent Additional Damage

Most insurance policies require homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage after a covered loss.

Examples include:

• Tarping damaged roofs

• Boarding broken windows

• Removing standing water when safe

• Drying affected areas

• Moving undamaged belongings away from water

Keep receipts for emergency repairs and temporary protective measures.

Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company or insurance advisor as soon as practical after discovering the damage.

Be prepared to provide:

• Your policy number

• Contact information

• The date of the loss

• A general description of the damage

• Photos or videos if requested

Your insurance company will explain the next steps in the claims process.

Step 5: Understand What Your Policy Covers

Every policy is different.

Depending on the cause of the damage, your policy may include coverage for:

• Wind damage

• Fallen trees

• Hail damage

• Lightning

• Fire following a storm

• Additional living expenses if your home is temporarily uninhabitable

However, flood damage is generally not covered by standard homeowners insurance and usually requires a separate flood insurance policy.

Review your policy carefully or speak with your insurance advisor if you're unsure what coverage applies.

Step 6: Work with the Adjuster

Your insurance company may assign an adjuster to inspect the property.

During the inspection:

• Be available to answer questions.

• Share your documentation.

• Point out all damaged areas.

• Keep notes about conversations.

• Ask questions if anything is unclear.

Keeping organized records can help throughout the process.

Step 7: Watch Out for Storm Scams

Unfortunately, severe weather often brings dishonest contractors and scammers.

Protect yourself by:

• Verifying contractor licenses where required.

• Requesting written estimates.

• Never paying the full amount upfront.

• Being cautious of door-to-door solicitations.

• Reading contracts carefully before signing.

If something sounds too good to be true, take time to research before making a decision.