MADISON – Insurers are focused on helping their policyholders begin the claims and recovery process after tornadoes and severe weather caused significant destruction in Wisconsin last week, says the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA). APCIA urges residents whose home or business was damaged or destroyed to contact their insurer to file a claim as soon as possible, if they have not yet done so.
“When disaster strikes, insurers’ overwhelming priority is to help their customers rebuild and restore their property,” said Joe Roth, assistant vice president of state government relations at APCIA. “Many residents suffered significant losses and are trying to navigate their next steps in the aftermath of the tornadoes, but they don’t have to do it alone. Insurers are ready to help every step of the way.”
To help impacted residents begin the recovery process, APCIA is answering common questions related to insurance after a disaster:
My home was damaged or destroyed. What should I do now?
- Reachout to your insurer or agent as soon as you can safely do so to file a claim. Insurers can be reached 24-7 through their toll-free claims number or via text, app, or website.
- Secure your property from further damage or theft, if possible.
- Make a list of what was lost or damaged and photograph or video the damage to provide to your insurance adjuster. Compile as many receipts, descriptions, and photos of your home’s contents as you can.
- Be aware of unscrupulous contractors or other third parties seeking to involve themselves with the insurance claims and damage repair process following a natural disaster. It is important to carefully consider any proposals from contractors, public adjusters, and lawyers offering to help with the insurance claim and damage repair process. Before signing any contracts, call your insurer first to report the damage and get your claim started.
Is damage to my home, business, and vehicle covered by insurance?
- Damage associated with severe weather events, like tornadoes, is typically covered under a standard homeowners, renters, or business policy.
- Damage to a vehicle is typically covered if the policyholder’s auto policy includes comprehensive insurance coverage.
What if I cannot live in my home due to damage or because it is being repaired?
- Ask your insurer if your policy covers additional living expenses, which can help pay for things like temporary housing, restaurant meals and laundry.
- Keep all receipts for such expenses so you can discuss them with the adjuster.
I have reported my claim; now what should I do?
- Take steps to prevent further damage. However, do not attempt permanent repairs or dispose of any damaged property before an adjuster can see it to assess the extent of your damages. If debris is dangerous, homeowners should carefully document their losses and then dispose of the debris.
- Photograph or video any perishable items and retain all receipts for emergency repairs and additional living costs to substantiate claims.
Editors note: Experts from the insurance industry are available to answer questions about the claims and recovery process after a tornado. Reporters can contact Sarah Revell at Sarah.Revell@apci.org to ask insurance-related questions or set up interviews.
Additional APCIA Resources:
APCIA Tornado Preparedness & Recovery
APCIA’s Tornado Recovery Booklet
How to Avoid Contractor Fraud & Abuse
The American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA) is the primary national trade association for home, auto, and business insurers. APCIA promotes and protects the viability of private competition for the benefit of consumers and insurers, with a legacy dating back 150 years. APCIA members represent all sizes, structures, and regions—protecting families, communities, and businesses in the U.S. and across the globe.
