In the wake of deadly tornadoes through Alabama, Tennessee and Mississippi, the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI) recently recommended those affected to contact their insurers and start the claims process as soon as possible.
“Our thoughts are with those who have been impacted from these severe storms,” said PCI’s Regional Manager of State Government Relations Logan McFaddin. “Homeowners should contact their insurance company or agent through their toll free phone number, app or website. Insurers plan for catastrophes and are prepared to assist homeowners immediately. Company adjustors are now in the field helping homeowners and renters begin rebuilding.”
PCI said most severe weather-related events like hail and tornadoes are covered under either a homeowners, renters or commercial insurance policy. Additionally, renters insurance covers a policyholder’s personal possessions damaged by tornadoes, while windstorm or hail damage for cars is typically covered by the comprehensive coverage offered in auto insurance policies.
To ensure a faster recovery time from tornado damage, PCI recommends that insurers secure property from further damage or theft, contact their insurance agent as soon as possible, write down any inventory losses and photograph damage for their insurance adjustor, and ensure that renters policies offer reimbursement of additional living expenses when their property is determined to be uninhabitable due to damage.