The FEMA Recommendations for Flood Preparation
8/26/2019 (Permalink)
Major storms can leave your Bensenville, IL, home in bad shape, and you may expect that flood insurance will keep you covered. However, sitting back and waiting for the insurance adjuster to get back to you with good news could be a big mistake.
After a natural disaster or huge storm, adjusters are often busy with several homes. You could be waiting for a long time before the professional reaches your home.
While waiting, flood damage will get worse. As water seeps into the walls and floors of your home, mold has time to get established and spread throughout the home. Many flood remediation and home repair companies work directly with insurance companies. Waiting for an insurance adjuster could increase the costs of repair to your home. Take action right away to get the repair work started.
Hire a Public Adjuster
One step to consider taking is hiring a public adjuster. The adjuster sent by your insurance company represents the insurance company's best interests. A public adjuster works for your best interests. The work done by this professional may speed up the claim process with your flood insurance company and make sure you get as much coverage as possible.
Decide Whether To File a Claim
Sometimes people avoid filing claims if they believe that their premiums will increase as a result. In this case, homeowners may proceed to do repairs on their own without even involving the adjuster. However, if further damages occur as a result of that inaction, insurance coverage may no longer be effective. It's true that a "claims free" discount could be lost, but contacting the adjuster is a good way to determine whether to file the actual claim or not.
Get Started on Repairs
You can get a lot of work done while you're waiting for the adjuster from your flood insurance company to show up. Don't wait to contact repair and reconstruction professionals to avoid mold damage. Reach out to a public adjuster to represent you.