Storm-affected residents learn claim procedures

Gov. Matt Blunt has directed MDI to visit the affected areas and provide assistance to those who need it.

MDI representatives are scheduled to be in Nixa noon–5 p.m. today at Bridge Church, 308 W. Mt. Vernon; and at the church 8 a.m.–5 p.m. tomorrow. Visits also are scheduled tomorrow in Madison and Monroe City.

Affected residents will be able to speak with MDI representatives and learn more about their insurance coverage under their existing policies, and to ensure their insurance companies are following proper claim procedures.

MDI offers several tips to all residents affected by recent severe weather:

• Don’t make any repairs to your property until your insurance company’s adjuster arrives. Only make temporary changes that are necessary to protect damaged property from further loss or damage, and keep receipts for all labor and materials used.

• Prepare a detailed property inventory. Make a list of all valuables and equipment that were damaged or destroyed.

• Find copies of your insurance policies, if possible. Use these as a reference when you have questions for the insurance company or MDI’s consumer services representatives.

• Call your insurance company to see if there is a packet of information available to guide you through the recovery and claims process.

If you have additional questions, MDI’s Consumer Services Hotline is available at 1-800-726-7930. A brochure, “Surviving Severe Weather,” is available at the MDI Web site, www.insurance.mo.gov.

See SBJ’s March 20 issue for more insurance news.