The Nebraska Department of Insurance urges those affected by the Thursday supercell storms to begin documenting damage and contacting their insurers as soon as possible.
"After any severe storms, it's important to remember to take the proper steps to ensure your safety and also protect your home," NDOI Director Eric Dunning said in a news release. "While it's natural to want to jump into repairs, it's important to make sure you take the proper steps to secure your home while also making sure the claims process runs smoothly."
The Department has these reminders for those impacted by the storms:
• Contact insurance agent/company as soon as possible
• Keep track of all calls with the company
• Take clear photos or videos of the damage to house
• Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. For example, a tarp to cover a hole in the roof
• Don't pay the whole repair bill in advance. Only pay when the work is complete.
• Ask agent if your policy covers living expenses until repairs are made
The state insurance department also warns of scammers showing up following severe weather.
They can use phone, text, mail, email, and even go door to door to target residents affected by the severe weather.
Some general ways that may help residents make informed decisions following a storm include:
• Work with only licensed and insured contractors.
• Don't sign a contract right away. Get multiple estimates.
• Don't pay the whole repair bill in advance. Only pay when the work is complete.
• Get everything in writing.
(Picture from Omaha Scanner)