Storm recovery tips from the Oklahoma Insurance Department

  The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is offering help to Oklahomans affected by the storm last Wednesday evening. The OID has set itself the goal of helping victims of damage deal with their insurance claims promptly and fairly. "Filing an insurance claim can be an intimidating process," said Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready. “But we are here for those who suffered from the storms on Wednesday. We want to make sure they are getting the support they need to recover as quickly as possible. " The OID's Consumer Assistance division stands ready to help anyone who has been harmed by this week's storms. Here are some tips for storm victims: Has your roof checked by a trusted roofer? If the damage is less than your deductible, you would have to pay for the repairs; If they are much greater than your deductible, check with your insurance carrier. Contact your insurance company or agent as soon as possible. Ask which forms, documents, and information you need to provide to process your application. Note that the replacement cost guidelines require that work be completed within six months of the lost data in order to receive the withheld replacement cost payments. Access and documentation of the damage. Take photos or videos of the damage. Don't throw anything away unless your insurance company tells you to. Make the necessary repairs to prevent further damage. Cover broken windows, holes, leaky roofs, and damaged walls. Don't get permanent repairs done until your insurance company has inspected the property and you have reached an agreement with them about the cost of reasonable repairs. If necessary, keep undamaged items in a safe place to avoid theft or additional loss. Save all receipts. After you have made repairs to your property, save all receipts, including those from the temporary repairs, that may be covered by your insurance policy. Ask about additional living expenses. If your home is damaged to the point that it is no longer habitable, ask your insurer if you can cover the cost of living during the repairs. Keep these tips in mind when dealing with contractors to avoid fraud: Always get more than one bid. Check references and phone numbers. Information on contract complaints is collected from the Better Business Bureau. You can call the Construction Industries Board to make sure the contractor has a valid license to do business in the state and has liability insurance. Do not pay in advance and do not make your final payment until the order is complete. Avoid contractors who offer to waive your deductible or promise a discount. Never sign a contract with spaces in it and always keep a copy for your records. If you have any questions about other insurance issues, please contact Oklahoma Insurance at 1-800-522-0071 or visit our website at www.oid.ok.gov. read more

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