After The Storm: What To Do When Your Home Is Damaged.

The first thing you need to do is assess the damage to your property. Always be sure that you aren’t in danger and that the storm is completely finished. Start by checking the outside of the home for any damage to the roof, siding and windows. You should also make sure that there are no downed trees or power lines in the area.

Step Two: Call Your Insurance Agent

After you have assessed the damages, your next step is to call your insurance agent to report any damage. Be ready to describe the situation and all of the damage that occurred. Make sure you also have your policy and account numbers ready when you call to speed up the process. Click here to find your Mel Foster Co. Insurance agent.

Step Three: Document The Damage

Before you begin making repairs, make sure you document the damages with photographs. This will prove that the damage actually occurred and will help your insurance agency help you. Once you have documented the damage, make your home safe and ensure no further damage is caused. Keep receipts for any work or materials that you are purchasing to repair your home. It’s important to note that if you must leave your home you should also keep receipts for hotel rooms and restaurants. Depending on your insurance policy, these expenses may also be covered.

What do I do after a storm hits?
What do I do after a storm hits?

Insure It Before You Move In

Moving to a new home is the perfect opportunity to shop around for homeowners insurance. Ask your current agent for a cost for insurance for your new house. That figure can be compared to the cost your Mel Foster Insurance agent can secure from one of the 25 available providers.

You can save up to 25% on your insurance by carrying coverage for multiple items. Your homeowners can be combined with your auto insurance, allowing you to qualify for a multi-line discount. Be sure to also include insurance for a boat, motorcycle, RV or collector car. The more toys you have to insure, the more you’ll save!

If you are a first time homeowner, you’ll have plenty of questions for your insurance agent. You might need help determining the deductible that’s comfortable for you. Carrying an umbrella policy might also be wise when you move into your new home. An umbrella policy is an excess liability policy that protects you against liability losses that could exceed your primary coverage. It’s an added option that can give you peace of mind in your new home.

Before you pack up your electronics, jewelry and precious family heirlooms, take pictures of everything. It’s a good idea to have an inventory with photos in case of damage during the move or a catastrophe. Leave the photos, CD or flash drive in your safe deposit box or a fireproof safe in your home so it will be available after a disaster. Your agent should review these assets to help you determine if you need additional coverage for your jewelry. You may not have enough coverage to pay for the replacement value of everything you own under your standard homeowners policy.

Determine your savings potential today by getting a free online quote of your insurance coverage.


,
Office:




© 2024