State official offers tips for dealing with insurance, ice damage

“It is important for Missouri consumers to understand what insurance coverage they have in these situations to ensure they are getting the financial security they pay for and deserve from their insurance company, ” Ommen said in a news release.

Ommen offers these tips to those whose property was affected by the weather:

• Contact your agent and/or insurance company. Keep a record of the time, date, topic and name of the person you talk to every time you call.

• If your dwelling is uninhabitable, your insurance agent or company will tell you if your policy covers any living expenses until repairs are made.

For example, some policies may provide for food and lodging.

• Generally, homeowners’ policies do not cover the loss of detached structures such as barns, sheds, carports and boat docks due to the weight of ice, snow or sleet.

• Typically, insurance policies will only cover damage caused by falling trees if the damaged property (car, home, etc.) is insured. If a tree in a homeowner’s yard were to damage a neighbor’s property, the homeowner may not be responsible because it is considered an “act of nature.” The neighbor’s insurance may cover the loss to the neighbor’s property.

• Insurance companies may cover damage caused by frozen pipes, but they may not cover repairs to the actual pipes.

• Protect property from further loss or damage. Make temporary repairs and keep receipts for all materials and labor.

• Survey the damage and take pictures, if possible.

• Make a list of all personal property destroyed or damaged. Note the approximate date, price and place of purchase and attach any sales receipts on file. The adjuster may ask for this information.

• The insurance company will send its adjuster to affected property. Make sure the adjuster has identification.

Insurance companies pay adjusters, so homeowners should not be asked for payment.

• Always contact your insurance agent or company representative first regarding questions and complaints.

If further assistance is required, or you believe your claim was handled incorrectly, call DIFP’s Consumer Insurance Hotline at (800) 726-7390.[[In-content Ad]]