“National weather observers are predicting an active storm season in the Great Plains this spring,” Commissioner Praeger said. “It’s been delayed somewhat by the long winter we’ve had, so it’s time for homeowners and vehicle owners to make sure they have adequate coverage for any upcoming events that might happen.”
The Kansas Insurance Department (KID) staff has come up with the following checklist of questions and statements that consumers and their insurance agents can review for determining whether your insurance is ready for spring weather-related events.
Ask yourself these questions
Do you have the right insurance? Do you know what your policy covers? Is the amount of coverage adequate? Does it cover new additions or recent remodeling?
Check all limits, including coverage for contents. Keep your agent’s name and number available and easy to find, and periodically discuss coverage options with him or her.
Know your policy coverage exclusions
Not all policies cover the following: Water damage, including flood and surface damage, whether driven by wind or not; backup of sewer or drains; and sump pump failure. These are the most common exclusions. Riders for these situations may be available to add to your existing policy.
Also, check your auto policy. Comprehensive coverage (other than collision) usually pays if damage is caused by wind, hail and/or flood.
Inventory your personal property
KID can provide you with a “Personal Home Inventory” booklet to help you list the contents of your home. Go online at www.ksinsurance.org, under “Publications,” to print off a personal copy.
We also have available the “Homeowners and Renters Insurance and Shopper’s Guide” and the “Auto Insurance and Shopper’s Guide” for printing. You can also download the MyHomeScr.APP.book application for your smartphone from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
Keep a copy of the inventory, sales receipts and video or photographs of your personal property in a secure place outside of your home.
Recovering after a storm
- If you suffer loss or damage because of windstorm or hail, follow these tips:
- Contact your agent and/or insurance company immediately.
- Keep a record of conversations with your agent or company. Write down the date and time, the person’s name and a summary of the call.
- Make a list of all damaged property, and take photographs/video of it.
- Get instructions from your company’s adjuster before calling anyone to repair or replace damaged property. Your insurer’s visual inspection of your loss may be required before claims are paid.
- Keep a list of all damaged property with the date, price and place of purchase for the adjuster. Make a copy of the list and all insurance forms you fill out for your own records.
If a windstorm or hail disaster occurs, adjusters will handle the largest losses first, but they should work to handle all claims as quickly as possible. Remember the following:
- Be present when your adjuster inspects your property.
- Insurance companies will have their own company or hired adjusters who should have appropriate employee identification. Be leery of any public adjuster who would charge you a percentage or your claim amount. Public adjusters in Kansas are not permitted to adjust personal homeowner losses.
- Beware of questionable or unfamiliar contractors in obtaining repair estimates. If possible, get more than one written estimate, and hire only local, reputable contractors to make the repairs once you get a written settlement from your insurance company.
- If you experience problems with your adjustment, you may file a written complaint with KID for assistance.
