Department of Insurance Offers Tips for Tornado Victims

The Illinois Department of Insurance is offering some advice to Illinois residents faced with insurance claims from tornado and other types of storm damage.

To assist property owners facing that process, the Insurance Department offers the following suggestions:

Notify your agent or company right away. Be sure to report any temporary address and phone number if you've vacated your home. Make necessary temporary repairs and move your personal property to a protected area to prevent additional damage. Clean and dry items damaged by water, but do not dispose of anything until the insurance adjuster had examined them. Keep records and receipts of all additional living expenses, and temporary repair costs. List all damage items you plan to report. Include as much detail as possible: e.g., purchase dates and prices, brands, and model and serial numbers. Ask about advance or partial payments, especially if you need money to make your house livable. Advance payments will be subtracted from your total settlement. Be cautious about contractors you hire to repair or rebuild your damaged property. Do not leave anyone rush you into repair work, and do not sign contracts for major repairs until the insurance company has determined how much it will pay. Be suspicious of anyone who promises you more that your insurance covers or leads you to believe that you should profit from disaster. If you have any questions about the handling of your claim, contact your insurance agent or agency.

For more information, contact the Department of Insurance: Springfield: (217) 782-4515 or TDD (217) 524-4782 Chicago: (312) 814-2427 or TDD (312) 814-2603.