What if stormy weather brings home repairs?
Thunderstorms are common in this area, and hurricane season brings other storm dangers, so it is important to prepare in advance for any potential issues by reviewing your insurance policy and determining the steps to take when filing a claim.
The Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas offers the following tips when dealing with insurance after serious weather strikes:
Contact your insurance company immediately. You might be eligible for loss-of-use benefits, which means you could be reimbursed for hotel costs, food and other living expenses while your house is unlivable. Be sure to document all conversations with your insurance company or their adjuster and get any promises for reimbursements in writing. Be sure to retain all receipts.
Beware of contractors who claim to be insurance claim specialists. Be sure you have thoroughly checked out your contractor before you permit them to deal directly with your insurance company and seek approval of repairs for you. Check out businesses at BBBHouston.org.
Document the damage to your property and possessions. Take pictures or video if possible. Go from room to room and create a detailed account of your belongings, if it is safe to do so. Keep all your receipts spent on supplies and living expenses for future reimbursement.
Make temporary repairs to limit further damage. You may be liable for damage that occurs after a storm has passed, so make temporary repairs, such as boarding up broken windows or throwing a tarp over a leaky roof.
Do not make permanent repairs until approved. Your insurer might not fully reimburse you for repairs made without their authorization.
Do not give an insurance check to a contractor for repairs prior to work being started. Never give more than one-third of the job price up front and make sure your insurance company has approved repairs before payment is given.
Visit www.bbbhouston.org or call 713-868-9500.