Tropical storms and hurricanes aren’t uncommon in New England. Connecticut’s homeowners have felt the effects of Hurricanes Irene and Sandy in recent years. If your residence has experienced storm damage from a hurricane, these steps can help repairs be made as quickly and efficiently as possible by your insurance company.

What to Do if Your Home Sustains Hurricane Damage

1. Evaluate the Damage

Once it’s safe to go outside, assess the damage to the property, including such factors as fallen trees and damaged lawn furniture. Pay special attention to your home’s roof. Most storm damage occurs there, so consider having it inspected by a professional roofer even if there’s no visible harm. 

2. Document the Worst Damage

Make notes and take photos of the damage to your home and belongings. These can help expedite your homeowners insurance claim once submitted. The more thorough your documentation is, the less likely it is that your claim will be held up while your insurance company assembles appraisers, claims adjusters, and estimators to assess other homes in the area.

3. Contact Your Homeowners Insurance Agent

Call your insurance company within a few hours to initiate a claim under your homeowners policy. Waiting more than 24 hours after damage occurs to notify an agent could put the claim at risk of denial. First, check your homeowners policy to verify which damages are covered so that you can prepare the wording of the claim.

If you want financial protection from hurricane damage to your home, the experienced team at K.L. Smith Agency LLC in Willimantic, CT, can help you select a homeowners policy that can give you the security you need. This family-owned agency offers a variety of general and unique insurance products, including property, auto, and life insurance to customers throughout Greater Willimantic and Eastern Connecticut. Call (860) 423-9294 or visit their website to learn more about their available policies.