Tips for speeding up insurance claims after tornado & storm damage

Here's a post I wrote after the 2011 tornado outbreak - same tips apply now:

Most victims of last night's tornadoes will not have access the internet so if you could share these tips with them I'm sure they would appreciate it.  Since most of us haven't dealt with this type of devastation before we don't know where to start.

Here are some tips for getting your insurance claims moving:

ALSO -- Visit the

for more details.

BE PREPARED --

Give insurance agents or representatives a description of the damage. The agent should report the loss immediately to your insurer or to a qualified adjuster who will contact you as soon as possible to inspect the property.

MAKE SURE YOU INCLUDE A VALID WORKING PHONE NUMBER.

TAKE PHOTOS -- GO BUY A DISPOSABLE CAMERA IF YOUR CELL PHONE CAMERA ISN'T WORKING.

Taking photographs of the damage. They can assist the adjuster in the investigation.

Making a list of all damaged or destroyed personal property and making at least two copies - one for you and the other for the adjuster. The list should describe the items and give dates of purchase or age, purchase price, and estimated replacement cost.

ASK YOUR BANK FOR STATEMENTS ON MAJOR PURCHASES --

Collecting canceled checks, invoices, receipts and other papers that will assist the adjuster in obtaining the value of destroyed property.

SAVE YOUR RECEIPTS FOR SUPPLIES AND MATERIALS YOU PURCHASE FOR TEMPORARY REPAIR --

Cover broken windows, damaged roofs and walls to prevent further damage. Your insurer will reimburse you for reasonable expenses in making temporary repairs.

CONTACT A REPUTABLE CONTRACTOR FOR ESTIMATES ON REPAIRS --

Securing a detailed estimate for permanent repairs to your home from a reliable contractor. Give it to the adjuster. The estimate should have the proposed repairs, repair costs and replacement prices.

Anyone with questions about filing claims can call the NationalInsurance Consumer Helpline  1-800-942-4242.

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