Step Four – If Your Home Is Damaged
- Call your insurance company or agent with your policy number and other relevant information as soon as possible. Be sure to cooperate fully with the insurance company. Ask what documents, forms and data you’ll need to file a claim. Keep a diary of all conversations with insurance companies, creditors or relief agencies.
- Take photographs/video of the damage.
- Make the repairs necessary to prevent further damage to your property (cover broken windows, leaking roofs and damaged walls). Don’t have permanent repairs made until your insurance company has inspected the property and you have reached an agreement on the cost of repairs.
- Save all receipts, including those from the temporary repairs covered by your insurance policy.
- If your home is damaged to the extent that you can’t live there, ask your insurance company if you have coverage for additional living expenses.
- Be wary of contractors who demand upfront payment before work is initiated or payment in full before work is completed. If the contractor needs payment to buy supplies, accompany the contractor to the supplier, and pay the supplier directly.
- Get more than one bid. Ask for at least three references. Check with the Better Business Bureau about the contractor. Ask for proof of necessary licenses, building permits, insurance and bonding. Record the license plate number and driver’s license number of the contractor.
- Contact DISB at (202) 727-8000 if you have a dispute with your insurer about the amount or terms of the claim settlement. Contact creditors; if you can’t cover all your expenses, try to negotiate a payment plan.