cost of replacement. It is also helpful to include brand names and model numbers where known. Submit these along with your claim to the insurance company. Preparing a list prior to any disaster is obviously prudent.
5. What if I cannot wait for the insurance adjuster?
Some insurance policies provide for reimbursement for temporary housing relocation costs while your home is being repaired and for car rental costs while your car is being repaired or replaced. Check your policy or call your insurance company or agent. If your situation is desperate, make sure that you let the insurance company know and, if the insurance company agrees that there is coverage, ask for an advance payment toward your losses. Due to the extreme amount of damage caused by a disaster, you should make all necessary temporary repairs, such as boarding up windows, patching holes in walls or roofs, or tarping the roof, as soon as possible even if you have not yet seen the insurance company representative. You can also move your personal property to protected areas and begin cleaning and drying items damaged by water. You should get the company’s permission before doing so whenever possible. You should also not dispose of any items you believe may be a complete loss until the insurance company representative has examined them. Many companies will also give you an emergency advance to cover some repair costs. Take photos of the way things look before you begin cleaning and repairing and keep receipts for all clean up and repair expenses.
6. Can I hire someone to make emergency repairs?
Probably. Most homeowners’ policies cover materials and reasonable labor expenses for temporary and emergency repairs in addition to any final repairs. You should get several estimates if possible. You should also ask the company representative whether the company will reimburse you for work you do yourself. Be sure to keep all the receipts.
7.
A contractor told me he could do the job faster if I just sign my insurance check over to him. Is that a good idea?
No. If the repair work is extensive, the contractor may ask for periodic partial payments as the work progresses, but it is highly unlikely that a reputable contractor will request full payment in advance. The contract should specify that payments will be made as work is completed. If you have a mortgage on your home, the lending institution may also have specific requirements as to how the insurance funds are disbursed.
8. What if the insurance company offers to settle?
You should consult a lawyer before signing any release or waiver and before cashing any check from the insurance company which might be deemed full and
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