Policy Holder Tips After A Storm Hits

Sump pumps:  It is important to check the sump pump in your home. Make sure that is is able to turn on and off and  look inside to make sure there isn’t any debris or obstructions inside.

Ice dams/roof leakage: An ice dam occurs when water builds up behind a blockage of ice. A snow rake can be used to scrape excess snow off a rooftop. You can carefully shovel snow on your own, but remember that rooftops are extremely slippery and dangerous. Warning: Do not try to chip or break off ice in ice dams yourself, because it could damage the gutters or shingles.

Water in the house: In order to remove excess water from your home, try mopping or blotting. Take upholstery cushions out for even drying. Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs; hang furs and leather goods separately. Don’t use a regular vacuum cleaner to remove water, and don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. Keep out of areas where the ceilings are sagging or retaining water. Do not turn on appliances that were submerged in water. Photograph everything and make sure that the date is time stamped on the photograph.

Inclement weather puts a major toll on homes and businesses with both interior and exterior damage. Most of the items mentioned above are likely covered under your homeowners policy. Your policy states that you must notify the insurance company within 14 days of the loss. The insurance company will send out their own adjuster to evaluate your damage. Most people have no idea what is covered under their policy and what they need to do to move forward. Contact All American Public Adjusters today for a free claims evaluation for your property damage.

Public Adjusters are licensed and bonded by the state to protect the rights of policy holders against the insurance company. A public adjuster will assess your damage, help file your insurance claim, review your policy, provide you with an estimate for your loss, and deal with the insurance company directly to get you the maximum settlement so that you can bring your property damage back to it’s pre-loss condition.