Filing Claims After a Tornado Strikes

04/27/2010

While traditional homeowners insurance covers damage caused by tornadoes, there are some steps people may take to minimize their losses.

Thorough documentation both before and after the disaster can help homeowners issue efficient and accurate insurance claims, according to a recent report by the Insurance Information Institute. Taking inventory of one's possessions may be beneficial following any natural disaster because it allows consumers to compare what they had owned to what they've lost.

Taking photographs of the damage can also assist insurance companies in processing claims.

Homeowners should also keep track of any expenses incurred in coping with their losses, according to the report. Those that make temporary repairs to their home's walls, windows or roofs should hold on to the receipts from these purchases. Estimating the cost of permanent fixes can also help prepare an insurer to meet these claims.

"If your home is severely damaged and you need to find other accommodations while repairs are being made, keep a record of all expenses, such as hotel and restaurant receipts," the report said.

The highest amount of tornado-related catastrophe losses occurred in 2008, according to the III, with about $10.5 billion in insured claims.

ShareThis