We know many areas in the Northwest are prone to severe weather. Due to this, we have some important safety and claim information to share to ease the recovery process for you.
Step 1: Ensure your personal safety and the safety of your loved ones after severe weather. Please follow these safety tips from the National Weather Service:
- Be aware of hazards from exposed nails and broken glass.
- Do not touch downed power lines or objects in contact with downed lines. Report electrical hazards to the police and the utility company.
- If it is dark when you are inspecting your home, use a flashlight rather than a candle or torch to avoid the risk of fire or explosion in a damaged home.
- If you see frayed wiring or sparks, or if there is an odor of something burning, you should immediately shut off the electrical system at the main circuit breaker if you have not done so already.
- If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open all windows, and leave the house immediately. Notify the gas company, the police or fire departments, or State Fire Marshal's office, and do not turn on the lights, light matches, smoke, or do anything that could cause a spark. Do not return to your house until you are told it is safe to do so.
Step 2: Take all necessary and reasonable steps to prevent further damage, e.g., remove trees from your dwelling, or tarp roof if necessary to prevent interior water damage. Reach out to contractors to begin the process of getting an estimate but DO NOT commit to any repairs yet.
Step 3: The most efficient way to report your claim is to contact your insurance company directly. You will likely need to provide your policy number, date of the incident and details about the damage. Here are a few more pointers for filing your new claim:
- The carrier may send an appraiser to prepare a scope of damage and complete a repair estimate. You should be present for this inspection and ensure that the appraiser is aware of all areas of damage.
- If you've not already done so, engage a contractor of your choice to prepare a scope of damage and complete a repair estimate. Provide your contractor with a copy of the appraisers' estimate. Note that you have the right to have repairs completed by a contractor of your choice.
- If your contractor will not complete repairs for the amount of the appraiser's estimate, the contractor and appraiser should meet and resolve the differences.
- If the contractor and appraiser are unable to reach agreement, contact us for further assistance.
- We are here to help! If you have further questions, please feel free to reach out.
Learn more about claims here.