Hurricane Matthew aftermath: How to file insurance claims
If Matthew damaged your home and you need to file a flood insurance claim, the National Flood Insurance Program offers these tips:
1. Notify your insurer to start the claims process. You should have this information handy:
? The name of your insurance company
? Your policy number
? A telephone and/or email address where you can be reached at all times
An adjuster should call you within a few days.
If not, call again.
2. Document the damage.
? Separate damaged items from undamaged items. Local officials may require the disposal of damaged items, so if you dispose of these things, keep at least a swatch or sample for the adjuster.
? Take photos of all damaged property. This includes structural damage, standing water levels and items beyond salvageable.
? Make a list of damaged or lost items and include their age, value, and receipts, if possible. An adjustor will work with you to calculate the value of the damage and prepare a repair estimate.
3. Complete a Proof of Loss to support your claim.
? Proof of Loss: statement of amount you are claiming and documentation that supports it
? Filing this document is required before the National Flood Insurance Program or insurance company can reimburse you.
? Your adjuster should help you file the claim, which must be completed within 60 days of the storm.
Additional tips
There's little property owners can do to expedite their specific claim.
Insurance companies prioritize size of losses differently, said
If a tree splits your home down the middle, document the damage, but then do whatever you can to prevent further damage, Creamer said.
"It's like leaving the car open during a rainstorm," he said. "Roll it up."
Lastly, if you have a large loss -- one that will keep you from living in your home for several months -- know your policy limits on additional living expenses.
Need more assistance?
A Catastrophe Claims Center will be available Wednesday and Thursday from
The following agencies and companies will be available to answer questions:
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? Federal Emergency Management Assistance and National Flood Insurance Program
? Allstate
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? Centauri
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? Geico
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? Safe Harbor Insurance Company
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? The
? Travelers
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