My Pipes Burst, Now What? Part 2
Top 10 things to get your new insurance claim started:
7. Save All Receipts: Start a new file, either digital or physical, for everything this is costing you above and beyond your normal lifestyle: dining out, hotels, drying fans, tarps, spoiled food in the refrigerator, gas to and from work, city permits, estimates from contractors, plumbers, electricians, cabinet builders, receipts from the kennel for your animals, etc.
8. Document All Interactions: Keep a journal. Record conversations with adjusters, write down all approved and disapproved items on your estimates, note the date, time and who was being spoken to about what. Be prepared for 3-4 months of turmoil in getting back to normal.
9. Request a Full Certified Copy of Your Policy: Knowing what is covered and what is not covered is very important. Knowing the deadline to send in documents to the claim is very important. Knowing how long you have to begin the work on the repairs is important. Knowing what time frames to expect from the carrier will keep you from being frustrated as well. What is your deductible? Is the mortgagee correct on the policy? By law the carrier is allowed to review your estimates and get back to you within certain time frames.
10. Take a Deep Breath: You will be stronger when this is over. Remember people of lesser caliber have survived their claims and you will too.
