How to File a Weather Insurance Claim

If you own a home, you know how a house can sustain damage in bad weather. Flooding from rain, high winds, tornadoes, hurricanes and even wet, heavy snow accumulating on roofs can all damage a home. Most homeowner's insurance policies cover weather-related damage, or you might have separate weather insurance. If your home has been damaged by Mother Nature, here's how to file a weather insurance claim.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Assess the damage. Make a list of all damaged items and what these items are worth. Take pictures of the damaged area. Include undamaged areas around the damaged area to help the insurance company make an accurate assessment.

2. Have proof of ownership of the house available when filing a weather insurance claim. A deed or mortgage payment stub may be required to show the insurance company you're the owner of the damaged property.

3. Contact your insurance agent or company by phone or in person to file a weather insurance claim. Your agent will be best able to guide you through the filing process. Keep in contact regularly with your agent when filing a claim.

4. Make any necessary temporary repairs to the home to prevent further damage. If, for instance, the damage has come from a leaky roof, make a repair to stop water from further entering the house. You can be reimbursed for all materials used when submitting your claim.

5. Wait patiently. Insurance claims take time to process. Stay in touch with your agent to keep updated on the claim. Submit any additional information such as documentation or receipts promptly to expedite the processing of your claim.

Tips & Warnings

• Having receipts or other documentation regarding furniture, jewelry and other personal items can help facilitate your weather insurance claim.
• If the weather-related damage to your home is enough that you cannot stay in the home, check that your policy has "loss of use" coverage. You can be reimbursed for staying in a hotel if your weather insurance policy has such language.