Understand How the Process Works for Filing Insurance Claims after a Storm, with Assistance from a San Antonio Public Adjuster

February 1, 2025 7:50 am Published by   Storms can be pretty destructive and do much damage to homes and property. In the event you need to navigate storm damage in San Antonio, understanding the process for making an insurance claim is a necessity. The following is a step-by-step guide to the process of submitting a storm damage insurance claim, including the ways a San Antonio public adjuster can help.

Steps Immediately After Storm Damage

Safety First

Your safety and that of your family should always be the priority. If the storm has caused major damage, evacuate your home and move to a safe location. Avoid entering areas with potential hazards like downed power lines, exposed electrical wiring, or structural instability. If there’s any immediate danger, contact emergency services right away.  

Document the Damage

Once it is safe, begin documenting the damage. Take clear photos and videos of all affected areas using your smartphone or camera. Take wide shots and close-ups to give context and detail. Make a list of damaged items and note their approximate values. Gather any receipts or proof of purchase you can find. This documentation will be crucial for your storm damage insurance claim.

Contact Your Insurer

Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible. Give them an overview of the situation and follow their guidance on the next steps. Here’s what to do:
  • Call Your Insurer: Report the damage and get a claim number.
  • Assign an Adjuster: The insurance company will assign an adjuster to assess the damage.
  • Schedule a Visit: Schedule the adjuster to visit your property, either virtually or in person.

Emergency Repairs

You can make temporary repairs to prevent further damage while waiting for the adjuster. This may include covering broken windows or patching a leaky roof. Keep all receipts and document the repairs with photos. Your insurance company may reimburse these costs, but only if you have proof.

Storm Damage Insurance Claim Filing

Report the Claim

Call your insurance company and report the damage. Most insurance companies have a 24/7 hotline for claims. So, be prepared with your policy number and details about the damage. Once you report the damage, your insurance company will assign a claim number to you. Be careful and note it down. You will need this for all communication afterwards.

Prepare for the Adjuster

Before the adjuster comes, you should prepare a list of all damages with descriptions, purchase dates, and available receipts. Clear photos and videos with angles that capture the damage from different sides should be made. The more you document the better. Also store with copies any receipts for emergency repairs.

Adjuster Visit

The insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the damage. Since the pandemic, many adjusters are conducting virtual visits via smartphone tools like FaceTime or Skype. If you prefer an in-person visit, request it from your insurer. During the adjuster’s visit, be present to point out all the damage and answer any questions. This can ensure nothing is overlooked.

Temporary Repairs and Living Arrangements

Make quick fixes to stop additional deterioration. Cover broken panes of glass with plywood or plastic. Use tarps to tarp roof leaks. Save all of your receipts for these materials, and the insurance company probably will reimburse you. If your house is undwellable, it can include coverage for additional living expenses such as hotel lodging, food, etc. Save all your receipts for these expenses and include them with your claim.

Know Your Policy

Read Your Policy

Before making a claim, read your homeowner’s insurance policy to find out what storm damage is insured and the amount of the deductible or any limitations that apply. Find coverages for windstorm damages, hail, and other types of storm-related perils. When in doubt about coverage, always contact your agent for clarification.

Actual Cash Value vs. Replacement Cost

Knowing the distinction between replacement cost coverage and actual cash value would also make clear the nature of storm damage on insurance claims. The former requires an insurance claimant to get money to buy replacement items new of the same type and quality as those which had been lost, while actual cash value payment gets the current value of that item at time of loss before deducting deprecation.

The Role of a San Antonio Public Adjuster

Expert Advocacy

A San Antonio public adjuster can be your strongest advocate when it comes to tough insurance claims. They cut through the confusion, offering clear and effective advocacy. Their expertise covers a broad spectrum of claims, especially those challenging cases such as fire damage and severe weather impacts.

Maximize Your Settlement Potential

Research and experience have shown that having a public adjuster on your side can significantly impact the outcome of your claim, often producing settlements 300-700% more than the original offer. Their goal is not just to get you a check; it’s getting you the maximum settlement you deserve.

No Out-of-Pocket Costs

San Antonio public adjusters mostly work on contingency, meaning that you only pay them if they are able to settle your claim. This is to ensure that they are really working hard for the best settlement for you.

Local Expertise

Public adjusters understand San Antonio in-depth, a country that is vibrant in insurance. They really know how to process this complex matter called your claim. They have knowledge of unique environment and insurance standards of San Antonio.

Conclusion

Navigating the storm damage insurance claims process can be daunting, but with the right guidance and support, you can ensure a smoother and more successful outcome. A San Antonio public adjuster can be a valuable asset, providing expert advocacy, maximizing your settlement potential, and offering local expertise. If you find yourself dealing with storm damage, consider reaching out to a San Antonio public adjuster to help you through the process.

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This post was written by Trishala Tiwari

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