Louisiana Department of Insurance POST - DISASTER INSURANCE GUIDE James J. Donelon Commissioner of Insurance

The Louisiana Department of Insurance: Understanding What’s Inside Who We Are and How We Can Help You Hurricane By Commissioner of Insurance Jim Donelon Health Insurance...... p. 2 Deductibles The Department of Insurance is a state agency created One of the key pieces of information Homeowners Insurance...... p. 2 by the Louisiana Legislature. One of our major functions is you need to know is whether your to make sure you get the insurance coverage you are paying homeowners insurance policy carries Ins. When Relocating...... p. 2 for. Regulation of insurance companies and producers a hurricane, named-storm or wind (also known as agents) is an especially important task. We and hail deductible. Homeowners Business Insurance...... p. 3 constantly monitor the insurance industry so that you can policies carry a basic all peril deductible be reasonably sure your insurance will be there when you typically ranging from $250 to need it. $2,000 depending on the insurance Commissioner Q&A...... p. 3 company. However, after Hurricanes Here’s a very general overview of how the Katrina and Rita, separate hurricane, P&C Cancellation Time regulatory process works: named-storm and wind and hail Frames...... p. 3 deductibles became common in coastal states. These deductibles typically run between two and five percent. Life Insurance...... p. 4 Insurance Companies: Keep in mind that a higher First, to write insurance in the state, a company must file an application with the deductible means higher out-of-pocket Filing a Claim...... p. 4 Department of Insurance requesting permission to write specific types of insurance under expense in the event of a loss. For specific guidelines. Department staff members check to be sure the company is offering example, if your home has an insured Renters Insurance...... p. 4 the type of insurance policies Louisiana citizens need and that it has adequate financial value of $150,000 with a two percent resources to pay claims. deductible, you would pay $3,000 out Avoid Being Hit Twice...... p. 4 Once licensed to write insurance in Louisiana, companies must file quarterly and annual of pocket before the company would reports with the Department and undergo routine examinations or special examinations pay towards the damage. That means if Questions About Trees...... p. 5 as needed. The Department’s extensive examination of insurance companies ensures that the damage to your home is $3,000 or they are financially sound, able to pay policyholders’ claims, follow Louisiana’s laws and less, the insurance company will not be meet the high standards required to do business in our state. responsible for paying on your claim. Reporting Insurance You can find out how much your Fraud...... p. 5 Licensed Producers: deductibles are on the first page of Similar rules apply to anyone wanting to become a licensed producer in Louisiana. your homeowners policy, or call your What are “Acts of God?” ....p. 5 You must submit an application to the Department, meet the high standards set forth for producer for more information. insurance producers and pass a rigorous written exam. Once licensed, producers must In 2009, the single season hurricane deductible law was enacted after Working with Adjusters...... p. 6 earn continuing education credits to stay licensed. Hurricanes Gustav and Ike struck Louisiana back to back in 2008. Having Understanding La Citizens..p. 6 Consumers: a single season hurricane deductible Some of the reasons you may want to contact the Department of Insurance are: if you lessens the impact the policyholder Hiring a Contractor...... p. 6 have a specific insurance related question, if you are having trouble resolving a dispute must bear when multiple storms cause with your company or producer, if you need to learn more about an insurance company damage to an insured property during Flood & Windstorm Ins...... p. 7 or if you want to report suspected insurance fraud. a single storm season or calendar year. Consumer complaints most frequently filed with the Department include: an insurance This will allow homeowners to better company not being cooperative when a claim is filed, not paying claims on time and plan and manage the cost of recovery Filing a Complaint...... p. 7 denying claims that should be paid. With the help of Department of Insurance staff, the if they are hit more than once in a majority of these problems can be worked out to everyone’s satisfaction. hurricane season or calendar year. Auto & Boat Damage...... p. 7 There are some limits to what the Department can do for you. The Department cannot If the amount of your claim falls give you legal advice, act as your lawyer or interfere in a pending lawsuit. We cannot below your deductible so that you paid Cleaning Up After...... p. 8 recommend one insurance company or producer instead of another, decide disputes the entire claim out of pocket, make based on who is negligent or at fault, determine the facts surrounding a claim or resolve sure to document the damage with Property Inventory...... p. 9 a complaint if the only evidence is your word against that of others. photographs and keep receipts for the repairs, because that money spent will I hope this helps you better understand what we can and cannot do. Please contact count toward the next deductible if you us if you have any questions or concerns you feel need our attention, toll free: 1-800-259- Contact Information...... p. 11 sustain damage from a second storm 5300; in Baton Rouge: 225-342-5900; on the web at www.ldi.la.gov or by email: public@ during that same storm season. ldi.la.gov.

Louisiana Department of Insurance: 1-800-259-5300; www.ldi.la.gov; [email protected] PAGE 2 POST- DISASTER INSURANCE GUIDE

Dealing with Now’s the Time to Better Understand Your Homeowners Insurance Health Insurance Homeowners Insurance is a “package” most expensive homeowners policy because policy that covers both property and liability it covers so many potential losses. After a Disaster claims. Property claims are made when Special Condominium Coverage is loss or damage occurs to your home or designed for condominium unit owners personal possessions. This coverage extends and is not presently offered by all insurance to possessions that you carry for personal companies. It provides the basic coverage use when you travel. Liability claims arise offered in the Tenants Form and provides when someone else suffers a bodily injury special protection needed by owners of Check your policy to see which kind or damage to their property because of condominium units. It insures only the of coverage you currently have. If you something you did or did not do. Liability interior of the dwelling, not the structure have actual cash value and would prefer claims may result in a lawsuit against you. itself. replacement coverage, it may be added to There are six basic types of homeowners When deciding which form is right for your policy for an increase in your premium coverage that are designed to provide you, be aware that there are some properties of about 10 to 15 percent. varying amounts of protection. Different and perils that are excluded from most Don’t forget about deductibles. Check insurance companies may give them homeowners policies. Animals, birds, fish, with your producer to find out if there is different titles, but the perils they insure are automobiles and business property that are a hurricane deductible written into your If you or your loved ones are injured or basically the same. away from the covered premises are not policy. There is a trend among insurance become ill as the result of a disaster, there The Basic Form protects your home covered by most homeowners policies. companies in Louisiana to apply a hurricane are many things you need to keep in mind and personal property such as furniture, Loss and damage caused by flood, surface deductible to homeowners policies due to carpeting and personal belongings. The water, water that backs up through sewers the frequency of storms in our state. For in order to make sure you get the medical policy covers damage due to fire or lightning, or drains, earth movement, nuclear damage example, a two percent hurricane deductible care and coverage you need. removal of property endangered by peril, and war are not covered. In some instances would require you to pay up to two percent If you have health insurance, find out windstorm or hail, vandalism or malicious you can purchase additional coverage for of the insured value of your home instead of from your insurer what coverage your plan mischief, theft, damage from vehicles and excluded items. the usual deductible you pay when you have provides when you are displaced and need aircraft, explosion, riot or civil commotion, Personal liability and medical payments other types of losses. When considering the glass breakage and comprehensive liability. medical care outside of your area. Local do not apply to operation or ownership of purchase of a policy, keep in mind that most Along with benefits provided by the any aircraft, automobile, recreational motor companies restrict the sale of insurance once emergency services may be able to direct Basic Form, the Broad Form insures your vehicle, water craft powered by more than a hurricane or tropical storm is approaching. you to alternative care locations if your home and personal property against building a 50-horsepower motor, or to bodily injury Most policies limit the amount of regular treatment settings are unavailable. collapse, freezing of or accidental discharge or physical damage caused by an intentional reimbursement for valuable items, such You can call your health insurer’s of water or steam from within plumbing, act of the insured. as jewelry, furs, silverware, guns, antiques heating/air conditioning systems, domestic customer service department to find out Figuring Out the Costs and computer equipment. If you have appliances, falling objects, weight of ice, some particularly valuable items in these what you need to do to make a claim. Learn snow or sleet and rupture or bursting of The settlement amount the insurance categories, you may need to purchase about your plan’s coverage for catastrophic hot water heating systems. It also provides company offers, of course, differs with each additional coverage. This type of coverage or long-term injuries, including coverage comprehensive personal liability coverage. situation. However, it helps to know the two is usually not expensive and is based on the for rehabilitation and the lifetime maximum The Special Form covers your home basic ways to value your property. value of the item being insured. Contact the policy will pay. against “all risks” except for certain Actual Cash Value is the replacement your insurance company or producer for specified exclusions, such as floods and Also, if you have a Flexible Spending cost of the item minus depreciation. For more information about valuable items earthquakes. This policy covers other example, if a new television set costs coverage. Account (FSA), save any medical or structures (such as a detached garage) $2,000 and your 7-year-old television set is A personal liability, or umbrella, prescription receipts to submit for and all perils covered in the Broad Form, damaged in a fire, you may end up receiving policy pays liability limits above those reimbursement. Ask your doctor to damage to or loss of personal property and only $1,200 because of depreciation of your you can get on your homeowners or other keep records about your progress. Your comprehensive liability. television’s value over time. basic liability policy. If you are thinking insurance company may need records of The Tenants Policy is a Broad Form Replacement Coverage is the cost of buying a personal liability policy, begin policy that supplies coverage for personal of replacing an item without deducting for by finding out the maximum amount of your continued progress toward recovery property and liability. This policy provides depreciation. For example, if the current personal liability your homeowners policy if you end up in rehabilitation. no coverage for the dwelling. cost of a television similar to the one you provides. Make sure you coordinate the Finally, know your rights. If you are The Comprehensive Form insures a bought seven years ago is $2,000, you liability limits so that the umbrella policy not receiving payment for the medical dwelling and personal property against all will receive the full $2,000. Most policies covers any liability claim in excess of the treatment you need, you or your doctor risks except certain specified perils such as require you to actually replace the item in amount your basic policy will pay, up to the floods and earthquakes. This is often the should contact the insurance company to order to receive reimbursement. maximum limits of the policy. explain the circumstances. Handling Your Insurance When You Have to Relocate

Whether you move to another state, own or rent, remember that flood insurance to properly register your vehicle. Keep in or even to another town, there are certain comes under a separate policy and should mind that insurance requirements differ, steps to take with all primary depending on what state you move to. insurances. Primary insurance Even if you move to another location in includes Homeowners Insurance Louisiana, make sure registration and or Renters Insurance, Health insurance information on your vehicle Insurance, Auto Insurance and and all other policies are properly Life Insurance. updated. First, remember to notify your Health Insurance: If you have current insurance producers of an HMO (Health Maintenance your new address so they will be Organization), a PPO (Preferred able to contact you if necessary. Provider Organization) plan or other Also, keep in mind that rates for health insurance plan that involves a Homeowners and Auto Insurance list of approved physicians and health are not the same in every state, so care facilities, be sure to get a list of your premium could go up or down the ones nearest your new location. Not depending on where you move. choosing doctors and medical facilities Homeowners Insurance: If on that list can cost you hundreds, or you buy a home, you will, of course, need be considered as a possibility by anyone even thousands of dollars. to insure it and cancel the policy on the in Louisiana who has a residence with a Life Insurance: Remember to notify previous home if you sell it. Always be ground floor. your insurance producer and company of sure you have coverage on any property Auto Insurance: If you move out your new address so that they can continue from the day you buy it until the day you of state, you will have to register your to serve you, especially if there are updates no longer own it. If you plan to rent, even automobile in your new location. Check concerning your policy (or policies) or temporarily, renters insurance is available with your local Department of Motor changes in contact information for your on your personal belongings. Whether you Vehicles for further information on how producer or company. POST- DISASTER INSURANCE GUIDE PAGE 3

Answering Your Questions About Business Insurance Ask Many new issues and questions not occurred. Generally, the policy covers Answer: If you purchased business about business insurance surfaced additional operating expenses incurred income coverage, it will typically Insurance after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The as a result of the loss such as the extra reimburse you for lost profits and following are the most commonly asked expense of operating out of a temporary continued fixed expenses during the time Commissioner questions of Department of Insurance location, even though business activities that the business must stay closed while staff about business insurance. The have come to a temporary halt. the premises is being restored. If you have Jim Donelon answers are general in nature. As Reimbursement under business ordinance or law coverage it will help with all types of insurance, you should interruption insurance is generally pay for the extra costs of tearing down Question: My mobile home was contact your producer or company triggered by some kind of damage the structure and rebuilding it. damaged in the storm. Will my policy regarding your specific policy and the to the property where the business is pay for the repairs even though my coverage afforded. conducted, and only when the damage Extra Expense mobile home was not tied down? is the result of a covered peril such as Coverage wind. Evacuation orders do NOT trigger Question: What about extra expenses Answer: Most companies have business interruption insurance coverage. incurred beyond normal operating very specific requirements regarding Acts of “civil authority” which preclude Question: Is my business covered for expenses? tie downs for mobile homes before a business from reopening can trigger property damage? Answer: IF you have extra expense they will provide coverage. You should Answer: A typical business owner’s business interruption coverage if the insurance, it will generally reimburse contact your producer regarding the policy covers damage due to wind, declaration was the result of a covered your company for what it spends, over specifics in your policy. Generally, if wind-driven rain and fire. So if your peril. Often, there is a deductible either and above normal operating expenses, business has been damaged or destroyed in a flat dollar amount or a waiting time. to relocate to avoid shutting down during the company issues a policy on a home by one of these perils, your insurance If it is a waiting time, it is typically 24 the restoration period. that was not tied down, they are still company will pay to have your business to 72 hours, meaning that payments do obligated to provide some coverage in repaired or rebuilt. Flood damage is not begin until the business has been Theft and Vandalism the event of a loss. The only exception usually excluded or very limited unless disrupted for one to three days. might be if the company can show that you have purchased flood coverage Most business interruption forms do Question: The contents of my business there was misrepresentation on the from the National Flood Insurance not include coverage for perils such as were stolen and the property was application for coverage by the insured emergency evacuation by civil authority Program or a private insurer. vandalized. Am I covered? and that the company would not have or a major utility disruption, unless they Answer: Standard business owners were added by endorsement. Typically, issued the policy if it had known the true Lost Revenue policies cover theft and vandalism, so facts regarding the tie downs. when business interruption insurance is any losses due to looting would be paid. Question: I had to shut down my purchased, the time frame for coverage is one year. The overall cost of business business. Will my insurance cover the Supplier Unable to Deliver Question: I live in a condominium lost revenue? If so, for how long? insurance is determined by the amount that was damaged by the storm. My unit Answer: Business interruption of coverage required during the period Question: My business is in another state, was damaged as well as the common insurance usually covers the actual specified. but my supplier, located in Louisiana, is loss resulting from a total or partial The National Flood Insurance closed because of storm damage. The areas of our complex. What part of the interruption of business, and reasonable Program does not provide coverage for supplier is unable to deliver parts or loss am I responsible for and what part expenses incurred to reduce the period business interruption. other items necessary for my business to should the Condominium Association of interruption, up to the limit of continue. Does insurance cover my loss? policy pay for? insurance written. It usually covers the Keep Closed Business Going Answer: More and more companies are profits a business would have earned, purchasing coverage - called contingent Answer: You should check the based on its own financial records, had Question: Can insurance help me keep business interruption or contingent bylaws of the association to see who the property loss due to an insured peril my business going while it is closed? business income - which helps soften the is responsible for what property. In general, your policy would pay for See BUSINESS INSURANCE, Page 6 damages to your unit. The Association’s policy would pay for damages to the buildings (roof, exterior walls, etc.) and to the common areas. You may Disaster Contact Information be responsible for an assessment to help pay for damages covered by the Association’s policy. Check your unit- owners policy to see what coverage you have to help you pay this bill. Most Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): policies include a minimum of $1,000 for loss assessment coverage. www.disasterassistance.gov www.fema.gov Question: Why did my check for payment of damages from the insurance 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) company go to my mortgage company? For speech or hearing impaired: (TTY) 1-800-462-7585 This is only prolonging the time it takes to get the repairs made to my house.

Answer: The situation you describe appears to be part of the terms entered American Red Cross: into between you and the lender. Your mortgage company has an insurable www.redcross.org interest in the home until the loan is paid in full, and each lender writes 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767) their contract procedures to assure that damages to the property are properly repaired. You should refer to your loan agreement for more information on the process involved. The LDI doesn’t have any jurisdiction over mortgage agreement contracts, but we suggest you contact the LA Office of Financial Institutions for guidance at 225-925- 4660 or visit www.ofi.state.la.us.

See Q&A, Page 5 PAGE 4 POST- DISASTER INSURANCE GUIDE

Having to Deal with Life Insurance After a Disaster How to Avoid In the unfortunate event that a copy by calling our toll-free number, some financial relief, but are easily circumstances have caused you to need to 1-800-259-5300. However, a copy of the overlooked during a crisis because the Being Hit Twice make a claim with your life insurer after a official death certificate must be submitted policyholder is often unsure of which disaster, there are some things you need to with the form. company provides the policy. Employers * Home repairs: Do business with keep in mind. are usually the best source of information licensed and insured contractors and Cash loan against life insurance policy when it comes to finding out the terms of a always get a written estimate of repair Lack of proper documentation group life policy. However, the Department costs. Call to verify a contractor’s You may want to find out if your of Insurance may be able to help if you licensure status. Lack of documentation is one of the company offers emergency loans against are unable to reach your employer or biggest concerns of claimants due to life the cash value of a current policy. These coworkers. * Contractor references: Ask for insurance policies being lost or left behind. types of loans are aimed at those who need Also, many financial institutions offer and check out references from the But often, disaster victims can obtain the help in recovery and rebuilding. Cash loans small complimentary accidental death contractor. Satisfied customers are an benefits they are entitled to even without are not available in a standard term-life policies. If you think your loved one may excellent resource when selecting a the actual life insurance policy or death policy. Policyholders with a cash-value life have had an accidental death policy, it’s contractor. certificate in hand. Most life insurers are insurance policy accrue cash based on the worth looking into. prepared to verify an individual policy premiums paid. And, unlike a bank loan, * Purchase of used vehicles or without a policy number as long as these policies can be borrowed against Don’t cheat watercraft: Many automobiles and claimants can provide basic information without providing any security or credit watercraft have been damaged by on the policyholder. information. Don’t expect a handout or try to take hurricanes in the past. Their damage If you are unable to obtain a death However, remember that the loan does advantage of the company’s leniency certificate, you may be able to make a life have to be paid back, and with interest. If in paying out claims without strict can be concealed and the vehicles may insurance claim with an affidavit from the the policyholder dies before the loan is paid documentation. A company will follow be sold to unsuspecting consumers. To funeral home director, an affidavit from off, the beneficiary will receive the death up on claims that are paid out and will take help prevent fraudulent sales, check the surviving family members, hospital records benefit minus the amount that was owed on action if there is any evidence of fraud. vehicle identification number (VIN) or a statement from a physician. the loan. or hull identification number (HIN) in Also, the Department of Insurance Make plans for the future the National Insurance Crime Bureau offers a service that allows the public Look into all benefit options database online at www.nicb.org to search for life insurance policies of It’s a good idea to keep copies of deceased relatives if the policy was Don’t forget to look into any group important life insurance documents with * Personal Information: Do not purchased in Louisiana. You can access life policies you may have through your trusted family members or in a safety give personal information such as the service form on our website or obtain employer. Group life policies can provide deposit box, in case of an emergency. your bank account numbers, social security number or other identification information to strangers, whether on the phone, online or in person. If you What You Need to Know About Filing an Insurance Claim think someone has stolen your identity, After a disaster, it is important to your home, let your insurance company agreements with contractors until you call or write all three credit bureaus call your insurance producer or the or producer know the phone numbers and have spoken with your insurance company. and ask them to place a fraud alert insurance company’s claims hotline and addresses where you can be reached day If your home is damaged to the on your credit report. The fraud alert tells creditors to contact you before file your claim as soon as possible. Have or night. extent that you cannot live there, ask your opening any new accounts or making your policy number and other relevant insurance company if your policy covers any changes to your existing accounts. information readily available. Your additional living expenses. policy might require that you make the An insurance company has Many people have multiple insurance The credit bureaus to contact are: notification within a certain time frame. policies, such as a homeowners policy, a When calling about your claim, keep up to 30 days to pay your flood policy and a windstorm policy, and Equifax (www.equifax.com): 1-866- a record of the conversation, including aren’t sure which policy to file their claim 349-5191, P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, claim after you give them GA 30348 the person’s name, title, date and time of under. Use your best judgment once you the call, and make notes about what was satisfactory proof of loss. have determined your damages. You Experian (www.experian.com): discussed. may need to file your claim with all three 1-800-397-3742, P.O. Box 949, Allen, Collaborate with your insurance policies. The adjuster or adjusters will take TX 75013-0949 company. Ask what documents, forms In most cases, you may need to make care of determining which policy covers and data you will need to file a claim. temporary repairs to prevent further which part of your loss. TransUnion (www.transunion.com): Provide your insurance company with damage to your property from the weather How soon does the insurance company 1-800-680-7289, P.O. Box 6790, Ful- accurate, detailed information. Incorrect or from looting. This would include have to pay you the money it owes you for lerton, CA 92834 or incomplete information will cause a boarding up windows and placing plastic the repairs to your property? Sometimes If you cannot cover all of your living delay in processing your claim. over the roof if it is leaking. you will receive a check quickly. However, expenses following a disaster, contact Your company will submit a loss If you make temporary repairs, keep an insurance company has up to 30 days your creditors to negotiate a payment form and an adjuster will be assigned to a list of all work done and save receipts to pay your claim after you give them plan. your claim. If you are unable to stay in for all materials used. Do not sign any satisfactory proof of loss. * Disaster Officials and Inspectors: Always ask for identification from any official who stops at your home or temporary shelter. Among the The Importance of Renters Insurance legitimate officials who may visit your You need insurance when renting amount of loss you will suffer if your belongings, two additional concerns are home are FEMA inspectors, U.S. Small to protect your personal belongings. home is destroyed or badly damaged by liability and flood coverage. Liability Business Administration loss verifiers, Owners of rented condos, apartments or a fire, burglary or storm; yet, an estimated insurance coverage protects you, for federal/state community relations single-dwelling homes have no reason to two-thirds of renters in Louisiana do not example, if a visitor is injured by tripping teams and local building officials. If carry insurance that protects the renter. carry any property and personal liability over a piece of your furniture or is bitten a visitor refuses to show his or her insurance. An even higher percentage of by your dog. Liability is included as a ID, contact local law enforcement Generally, any insurance landlords carry authorities immediately. will only cover their personal liability and renters do not carry flood insurance, even part of your renter’s insurance coverage, damage to the building itself. if they live on the ground floor or in a low however, flood is not. Scam artists have been known to Renters insurance is usually not very lying area. Anyone who has a ground floor appear on the scene after a disaster expensive. Some renters fail to insure There may be an occasional situation residence in Louisiana should consider claiming to be government officials their personal possessions because they in which the owner of the building would buying flood insurance. A local insurance and say they can help you qualify believe insurance is too expensive, when be responsible for a renter’s loss, but in producer can sell you flood insurance, for financial disaster relief for a in fact, renters insurance is typically most cases you are on your own. People in but it will be a separate policy from your “processing fee.” FEMA does not available for as little as $100 a year. apartments or condos who share common regular property insurance. It is provided charge fees for processing disaster To estimate how much it would cost walls with other residences have limited by the National Flood Insurance Program aid. Others may masquerade as safety control over their exposure to fire, water and only covers flooding. inspectors or utility repairmen and say you to replace just the major items in your immediate work is required and charge home, do a quick inventory of televisions, and other types of damage that can spread Renters policies normally pay only a fee for unnecessary work. computers and other big ticket items. from one part of a building to another. the actual cash value of your losses, but That is only the beginning of the dollar Besides coverage for damage to your replacement coverage is available. POST- DISASTER INSURANCE GUIDE PAGE 5

From Q&A, Page 3 What are Question: How are losses to Common Questions About Trees swimming pools covered? I have an “Acts of God” & in-ground pool and my neighbor has an The following questions and answers above ground pool. Our companies are “Acts of Nature”? address the most common “tree” questions paying differently. Is this right? posed over the years by consumers to the The terms “Acts of God” and “Acts of Louisiana Department of Insurance: Answer: Yes, coverage is different Nature” are used to describe similar kinds for in-ground and above ground pools. of occurrences that, for the most part, are In-ground pools are considered to be Question: A tree fell on my roof during like the foundation of the house and high winds and caused extensive damage. beyond human control. An Act of God damages to the structure of the pool are Will my company pay for removing the is defined as an incident due directly to covered. If a tree or debris has cracked tree as well as fixing my roof? natural causes and exclusively without the walls or floor of the pool or the human interaction. Common examples concrete decking surrounding the pool, Answer: You should check the terms are hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados and your homeowners policy should cover of your policy, but usually the company floods. However, most insurance policies repair costs. However, if damage was will pay for removal of the tree because do not use either term. caused by water – usually undermining it damaged your insured dwelling. The or pop-up caused by water pressure – cost of repairing the damage to your home there is no coverage. would be covered. Your insurance company cannot Above ground pools are considered cancel, refuse to renew or increase to be appurtenant structures – similar the amount of the premium on your to a shed or detached garage – and will be covered if the policy provides Question: Wind blew one of my trees down in my yard. Am I covered for the loss homeowners policy based solely on a loss for appurtenant structure coverage. If of the tree? Am I covered for the ornamental shrub that was crushed by the tree? What caused by an Act of God. However, the detached structures are not covered by about the expense of removing it from my yard? insurer may make such changes to your your policy, your claim will not be paid. policy due to an Act of God if they make Answer: You should contact your producer as this may or may not be covered under Damage caused by water is excluded the changes on an area-wide rating basis at as for in-ground pools. Note: Your your particular policy. Some policies provide coverage to remove a fallen tree if it the beginning of a new policy period. flood policy also excludes damage to blocks the insured’s driveway. swimming pools whether in or above ground. While flooding, wind damage and Question: Wind blew two of my neighbor’s healthy trees down on my property. One hurricanes may all be defined as Acts of of them crushed my fence but nothing else was damaged. Whose policy should pay God, they are treated quite differently in Question: Many family members for the damages and what is covered? property and casualty insurance policies. will be staying at our home due to the Flooding is a peril that you can almost disaster. Do I need to make changes Answer: If your neighbor’s healthy tree falls on your home, fence or other property, always expect to see excluded from your in my homeowners policy to be sure it is your insurance company’s responsibility to pay for repairing the damage. Your they are covered as members of the neighbor’s insurer would probably only accept liability and pay for the damage if the homeowners policy. Flood insurance must household? tree was dead or weakened in such a way that the owner should have known it was be purchased as a separate policy. You should let the insurance dangerous before it fell. So, your policy pays for the damage to your fence. You also Answer: Property insurance coverage on representative and company who handles have coverage under your policy for the removal of the tree that damaged your fence your homeowners policy know of the since it was considered a “covered structure.” your home can range from a standard change in your household as soon as fire insurance policy that offers minimal you can. coverage, to a homeowners policy that Your family will be covered Question: Wind blew down one of my trees and it fell on my garage. My car was in is much more comprehensive. Some under the liability provisions of your the garage and was also damaged. Does my homeowners policy cover this damage? property insurance policies exclude wind homeowners policy. If, for example, someone visiting your home makes a Answer: Your homeowners policy will pay for the damage to the garage but not to and hail damage while others may include claim against your homeowners policy your car. Your auto insurance policy will pay for the damage to your car if you have the additional cost of a separate hurricane for something for which a family comprehensive coverage. deductible. Many of these commonly member is allegedly responsible, it excluded perils can be purchased for an would be covered. However, as a additional premium. member of your household, your family Question: The wind uprooted a big tree near my patio and the tree’s roots tore up member cannot claim liability damages the patio. Do I have any coverage? under your homeowners policy. The rules governing Acts of God Personal belongings could present Answer: Yes, both the damage to the patio and the cost of removing the tree are on homeowners insurance also apply to a special problem, depending on their covered. renters and commercial property insurance. dollar value. If, for instance, your However, automobile insurance must be guests have jewelry or other valuables considered as a separate issue. If a vehicle with them, you will want to consider additional insurance. A rider, similar to is covered by comprehensive insurance, the one you might have on your own it is generally insured for most physical valuables, might be your best solution in Reporting Suspected Insurance Fraud: losses, including fire, flood, damages that case. Your insurance representative It’s Everyone’s Responsibility from fallen trees and theft. One notable can help you decide on your best option, exception is that comprehensive coverage depending on the specific situation. Unfortunately for everyone, some Insurance Fraud” link. excludes collision, which must be added to A word about minors: your basic people will exploit relief efforts meant Individuals usually contact us quickly the policy for an additional cost. homeowners coverage would extend to for victims of a disaster. You may be when they feel their insurance producer minors living in your home, with some surprised to know that Louisiana law is pocketing their money instead of possible exceptions. If the minor is a requires you to report any knowledge sending it to the insurance company. foster child or an evacuee, discuss with of insurance fraud to the Fraud Section However, we also need to hear from you your insurance company what special of the Department of Insurance. In and your neighbors if you have reason rules may apply. Be prepared when 2012, this law was expanded to require you contact your representative by to believe that someone is committing, having with you any written contracts individuals to report any suspected has committed or is planning to commit concerning the arrangement that may fraudulent insurance activity that will be, claims fraud. The bit of information affect your homeowners liability. is being, or has been committed. you give us may not seem like much to Adult relatives and their possessions Reporting insurance fraud is also in you, but it could be that one piece of the would be considered a part of your your best interest because it costs all of us puzzle that will lead to the conviction of household, as minor relatives are. money. Statistics indicate that more than a perpetrator of fraud. If you have reason However, the personal possessions of 10 percent of every insurance dollar we to believe that an individual or group adult non relatives might be covered pay goes to make up for insurance claims has committed or is planning to commit under your homeowners policy, even fraud. Insurance fraud reporting may be insurance fraud, do your part by passing though they personally would not be done anonymously on the department that information along to us. We’ll do covered by the liability provision. website at www.ldi.la.gov at the “Report the rest. POST- DISASTER INSURANCE GUIDE PAGE 6

Tips for Working Things to Consider When with Insurance Adjusters Hiring a Contractor If damage to your home has left you in Be on the look out for out-of-state There are three kinds of adjusters who need of a contractor, be extra careful. Most con artists who may have just breezed operate in Louisiana: insurance company of the time, an insurance company does into town to take advantage of the local adjusters, independent adjusters who not recommend a contractor, so be wary situation. Also be wary of contractors who contract with insurance companies, and of those who claim the insurance company demand payment in full before work is public adjusters who offer their services, sent them. Always ask to see something in completed. for a fee, to policyholders and others, who writing. If the contractor needs payment to buy want help with getting their claims paid by Get bids from at least three different supplies, accompany the contractor and the insurance company. sources. Do not do business with a pay the supplier directly. It is also a good Insurance adjusters, whether you have reached an agreement with your contractor who cannot show proof of idea to record the contractor’s license plate contractors or employees of companies, insurance company on the repair costs. insurance. If possible, go one step further number and driver’s license number. play a vital role in the claims process. Check with your insurance producer or and ask that the contractor’s insurance Before any work is started, request a That is never more evident than it is company for specific instructions. When carrier mail a certificate of insurance clearly worded, itemized contract. Review after a disaster. Many companies do not possible, before meeting with the claims coverage directly to you. With all it with the contractor and make sure you have enough people on staff to handle an adjuster, determine what it will cost to contractors, request the names and phone understand and agree with its content unexpectedly large workload so they rely repair your property. numbers of at least two references who before the contract is signed. have had similar work done by them in the on contract adjusters to help them expedite If your property was damaged by last year. Follow through by calling each The contract should include the the overwhelming number of claims they windstorm and by flood, you will likely have reference and discussing the contractor’s following: receive. separate adjusters. If your homeowners and work in some detail. Adjusters go into disaster areas as soon flood policies are written through the same Only do business with a contractor * A separate breakout of labor and cost of as they are permitted to do so by emergency company, it is possible your losses will be who is bonded, which will offer you some materials. officials. The time this will take depends handled by the same adjuster. protection if the job is not satisfactorily * The contractor’s responsibility to get all on the severity of the damage in the area. Be present when the adjuster comes completed or supplies purchased to make required permits. If you have reported your loss to your to inspect your property. Make sure you your repairs are not paid for. Check the * The date the project is to begin and the company, they should be able to give you an have your insurance policy, your list licensing of the contractor with the State date it is to be completed. estimate on the time the adjuster will arrive. of possessions, any “before and after” Licensing Board for Contractors by * Proof of insurance coverage from Remember, in a severe disaster, claims are pictures you may have taken, and all of calling (225) 765-2301, or visiting www. the job’s start date until work is to be prioritized by the severity of damage. your receipts for materials used to make lslbc.louisiana.gov and clicking on “Find a completed. Anyone who is representing a emergency repairs. Also be prepared to Contractor.” You can also call your Better * A statement guaranteeing that the work company should be able to show you an provide the claims adjuster with records of Business Bureau to learn if there have been area will be left in its original condition ID. If you have any concerns about an any property improvements you made prior any complaints filed against the contractor. when the job is done. adjuster or any other insurance company to the damage caused by the disaster. All representative, contact the insurance of this will make the adjuster’s work easier From BUSINESS INSURANCE, Page 3 company for verification. Ask for proof and will help settle your claim sooner. It of license, as all adjusters in Louisiana are is also important that you and the adjuster financial impact of events outside the most acts of nature, road construction that required to be licensed by the Department. come to an agreement on what needs to be firm’s control. If you purchased this shuts down your business, and collision, coverage, you may be reimbursed for such as the Riverwalk shopping area in Non-resident adjusters responding to repaired or replaced. your lost profits and the extra expenses New Orleans being hit by a ship, or an catastrophes must be registered with After inspecting your property, the resulting from an interruption of your out-of-control car crashing through the the Department. You can find adjuster adjuster will prepare a repair estimate. Ask business at the premises of a customer front door of your place of business. licensing forms and information on our the adjuster for an itemized explanation or supplier. The destruction of the Twin Towers website at www.ldi.la.gov. The adjuster of the claim settlement offer. If the first in New York City illustrates how business will need to see the damage to evaluate settlement offer does not meet your Business Interruption Insurance interruption insurance provides coverage directly or indirectly. Businesses that your loss but generally you should make expectations, do not accept it and be Question: I have a small business were directly involved and had business temporary repairs that will prevent further prepared to negotiate. If you cannot reach operation with one location and a larger interruption insurance were covered, damage to your property. You might want an agreement, call your insurance company one with three locations. Do I need as were those not damaged directly to postpone permanent repairs until the or contact the Department of Insurance at business interruption insurance? but closed because they were in the adjuster has inspected the property and 1-800-259-5300. Answer: When there is a national immediate area. disaster, a lot of attention becomes To make an informed decision about focused on business insurance. In regard business interruption insurance, sit down to your particular businesses, ask yourself with your producer or other insurance this question: “If my business was shut company representative to discuss the Understanding the Louisiana Citizens down for three months during my busy matter. Your accountant should be able Property Insurance Corporation season, what would it cost me?” And then to help you prepare for the meeting. ask, “Could I afford to absorb the loss The Louisiana Citizens Property to provide comprehensive coverage myself?” If you could afford 50 percent of Home-Based Business Insurance Corporation was created to policyholders at rates that are not the loss, you can buy insurance to cover by the Legislature in 2003 to provide competitive with rates charged in the the other 50 percent. In fact, you can get Question: I operate a business out of coverage to policyholders in high risk voluntary market. insurance for whatever percentage of the my home. Do I need business property areas. Citizens serves as the insurer Citizens works to respond timely loss you want to consider insuring. insurance? of last resort for consumers who are and efficiently to changes in the The above questions apply to you, no Answer: If you operate a business out unable to obtain property insurance in property insurance marketplace with matter whether you have a large business of your home, you should consider the regular insurance market. Citizens due consideration for the needs of operation, a ‘Mom and Pop’ store, or purchasing a separate business insurance some other kind of income-producing also encourages its depopulation by Louisiana Citizens policyholders, meets policy. Purchasing a business insurance business, such as rental on an apartment policy will protect your business property facilitating the ability of policyholders its obligations to policyholders by building you own. If you have more than and your personal liability if someone to obtain insurance from private insurers. maintaining financial resources adequate one location for the same business, you is injured in your home due to business Some homeowners policies, to meet regular operating requirements can insure them all under a single policy. activities. especially for property along the coast, and follows established procedures to The policy would cover any one or more For example, if you do not have exclude coverage for wind and hail secure necessary financial resources in of the locations that were shut down. business property insurance and your damage. Citizens offers this type of the event of a catastrophe. Business interruption insurance house is burglarized, your homeowners supplemental coverage, along with other Any property and casualty producer coverage may vary from insurance policy will only pay a limited amount basic property insurance. is eligible to place coverage with company to insurance company. for the replacement of your business In carrying out its mission, Citizens on your behalf. However, you can expect certain perils property. Also, if someone is injured as a Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance If you need to file a claim with to be specifically covered in a good basic result of your business activity, you could Corporation complies with statutory Citizens, contact them at 1-877-815- contract. be held liable to pay their medical bills requirements and uses its best efforts 5055 or at www.lacitizens.com. Common Perils include fire, theft, and make restitution if you are sued. POST- DISASTER INSURANCE GUIDE PAGE 7 Understanding Flood and Windstorm Insurance

Since flood damage is not covered Flood Insurance Basics run off of surface waters from any source. for a commercial structure (Coverage under homeowners policies, purchasing Flood insurance protects homes, * Mudflow, which is a river of liquid and A) and up to $500,000 for its contents a separate flood insurance policy can help condominiums, apartments and non- flowing mud on the surfaces of normally (Coverage B). homeowners and commercial interests residential buildings, including dry land areas, as when earth is carried by * In a high-risk area, a home is more than protect their homes and businesses. commercial structures. While some a current of water. twice as likely to be damaged by flood Although the Louisiana Department may believe that flooding only affects According to the NFIP, just a single than by fire. of Insurance (LDI) can answer basic properties in coastal and low lying areas, inch of floodwater can cause more than * Floods and flash floods happen in all 50 questions about flood insurance, the the truth is everyone is vulnerable to $10,000 in damage to a home. Here are states. Department does not regulate the National floods. In fact, property owners outside of additional flood facts from the NFIP: Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), high-risk flood areas are responsible for * For those who live in a Special Flood Purchasing Flood Insurance approve its rates or changes or have any 25 percent of NFIP claims in Louisiana. Hazard Area (SFHA) or high-risk area Contact the National Flood Insurance authority over the program. However Rising floodwaters can prove to be and have a federally backed mortgage, the Program (NFIP) at 1-888-CALL FLOOD the LDI monitors how these changes hazardous no matter where you live, yet mortgage lender requires a flood insurance or visit www.floodsmart.gov. But don’t impact policyholders in Louisiana. For only one out of every four single family policy. wait until a storm is coming to purchase more information on flood insurance, homes in Louisiana have flood insurance. * The Standard NFIP flood insurance flood insurance. It may take 30 days after please visit the NFIP’s website at www. This is why it is advisable for everyone to policy does not provide coverage in excess purchase for a flood insurance policy to go floodsmart.gov or call 1-800-427-2419. have flood insurance, even if you live in of $250,000 for your house (Coverage A) into effect. As a coastal state, Louisiana has an area that is not flood prone. and $100,000 for its contents (Coverage relied heavily on the National Flood When we talk about flood insurance, B). If more coverage is necessary, it What if You Have No Flood Insurance Insurance Program (NFIP), whose “flood” means a general and temporary can be acquired through excess flood If you do not have flood insurance, majority of current indebtedness resulted condition of partial or complete inundation insurance that can be purchased through there are other possibilities for from Hurricane Katrina and Rita payments of normally dry land areas from: private insurers. reimbursement from some flood damages. in our state. There are 5.6 million NFIP * The overflow of inland or tidal waters. * The Standard NFIP flood insurance Check other property and casualty policies policyholders nationwide. * The unusual and rapid accumulation or policy provides coverage up to $500,000 See FLOOD INSURANCE, Page 8

Filing a Complaint with the Department of Insurance Auto and Boat If you need to file an insurance Once the Department of Insurance claim following a disaster, we hope your receives your complaint, you should receive Storm Damage Q & A insurance company will respond in a timely an acknowledgment letter stating your file manner and you will receive all of the number and the name of the compliance payments and benefits that you are due. examiner in charge of investigating your However, if you feel your insurance complaint. An investigation usually Storm Damage company is not treating your claim fairly, takes about 60 days, depending on the the Department of Insurance may be able to complexity of the case. Question: What types of storm damage are covered under my auto help. Helping you negotiate your insurance The Department will send a copy policy? disputes is one of the most important of your complaint to the company or services we provide. other appropriate party and ask for an Answer: All complaints against insurance explanation of their position. Your A. If Comprehensive coverage, sometimes called “Other Than Collision” companies should be submitted in writing examiner will then review all responses coverage is included in your policy, wind and flood damages should to the Department of Insurance. You can received to assure the problem has been be covered. call us for a form at 1-800-259-5300 or property addressed. Your examiner will 225-342-1258, or print it off of the website then send you a letter with the results of B. Vehicles that are overturned by the force of the wind or blown into or and mail the completed form and copies of the investigation. against other objects by the wind are considered damaged by wind- any supporting material to: If no evidence of a violation is found, the examiner will so advise and storm and should be covered under Comprehensive. Louisiana Department of Insurance explain why the investigation is being Property and Casualty closed. However, if your examiner is not C. Broken auto glass caused by objects blown by the wind is usually Consumer Complaints satisfied with the company’s response, the covered by Comprehensive. P.O. Box 94214 investigation will continue. Baton Rouge, LA 70804 If we feel the law has been violated, D. Auto glass that pops out due to sudden drops in atmospheric pressure the Department will pursue administrative is usually covered by Comprehensive. If they are available, try to provide the action to correct and punish the wrongdoing. following supporting materials with your Keep in mind that there are limits to complaint: what the Department can do for you. Please * Letters you have written to the company be aware that the Department of Insurance Flooding or producer dealing with the problem. cannot give you legal advice, act as your lawyer, interfere in a pending lawsuit or Question: Do automobile insurance policies cover flooding? * Letters you have received from the decide disputes based on who is negligent company or producer. or at fault. Answer: Yes, if you have purchased Comprehensive coverage. If you only The Department also cannot decide have Liability coverage, your vehicle is not covered for flooding. * Other letters about the problem, such as disputes of a medial fact or opinion, those from your doctor or lawyer. determine the facts surrounding a claim or resolve a complaint if the only evidence is * Your policy or the excerpt from your your word against the word of others. My Boat Damages Neighbor’s House benefits handbook that covers the situation, If you find you are not satisfied with and any relevant sales literature or the decision and explanation given to you Question: My boat was blown into my neighbor’s house during the storm. worksheets. by your examiner, you may contact our Should my boat policy cover the damage to his house? Office of Consumer Advocacy to pursue * Your insurance ID card copied front further assistance. and back. To contact the Office of Consumer Answer: No. Your neighbor’s homeowners policy would cover the damage Advocacy, call toll free 1-800-259-5300 to his house unless you were negligent and held liable due to that negligence. * A copy of the claim you filed, if applicable. and ask for “Consumer Advocacy,” or call the office directly at 225-219-0619. You * If you have any new information after may also email the Office of Consumer the complaint is submitted, send it to your Advocacy at consumeradvocacy@ldi. examiner and include your file number. la.gov. PAGE 8 POST - DISASTER INSURANCE GUIDE

From FLOOD INSURANCE, Page 7

for all opportunities for recovery. These Wind, Rain and Hail Insurance buying a new policy. It also reinstates Cleaning Up may include: Wind-driven rain isn’t considered grandfathering. Homes that complied with * Your homeowners policy covering “flooding” and most homeowners policies previous flood maps will no longer be hit After the loss of food by spoilage due to electrical cover wind, rain, and hail damage. If your with large increases when new maps show outages or damage from power urges policy excludes coverage for windstorm, greater risk of flooding. Storm related to storms; you should have a separate policy to The Homeowner Flood Insurance * Your auto policy covering damage insure your property for these kinds of Affordability Act does not address rate After calling your producer or to your motor vehicle if you have losses. If your property is damaged by hikes for businesses, secondary vacation insurance company there are certain comprehensive coverage; wind, wind-driven rain or hail, or if you homes and homes that repeatedly flooded things you can do to clean up your * Your homeowners policy covering are not sure if the damage is from flood that were all grandfathered into lower property without causing problems damage by fallen trees. or wind, contact your insurance producer premiums for flood insurance before with your claim. You may be eligible for Federal or insurance company right away. Submit flood maps were created. Such affected * Before you enter your home, check to Emergency Management Agency your claim for all damages. Your company policyholders will see annual increases make sure the structure is not in danger (FEMA) federal disaster assistance in will send an adjuster to investigate your over the next few years of 25 percent of of collapsing. the form of low-interest loans or grants claim and determine the cause of loss. the actuarial cost until those policies are if your home is in a federally declared Generally windstorm damage is actuarially priced. * Make sure the electricity is turned disaster area. Parts of Louisiana have covered under your homeowners policy There is also non-mandatory language off at the main switch, and do not been declared to be a natural disaster after with a separate “named-storm deductible” directing FEMA to strive to reach the goal attempt to turn on any electrical lights past storms and hurricanes and, therefore, or “hurricane deductible,” which usually that most policyholders have a premium or appliances until an electrician has eligible for FEMA assistance. However, ranges from two percent to five percent of of no more than one percent of the value checked your system. federal disaster assistance declarations are the insured property value and could be of their coverage - in other words, $2,000 awarded in less that 50 percent of flooding higher. for a $200,000 policy. In order to pay * Open windows and doors to help incidents. If you are uninsured and receive for the continued subsidizing of rates, dry out the house, let the air circulate federal disaster assistance after a flood, NFIP Changes annual assessments will be implemented. to remove foul odors and help protect you must purchase flood insurance to In 2012, the Biggert-Waters Flood Assessments of $25 per year for primary you from any leaking gas. Do not light receive disaster relief in the future. Insurance Reform and Modernization residences and $250 per year for businesses any type of open flame because you Act was signed into law. The act and vacations homes will be charged to could cause an explosion. If Impacted by a Flood reauthorized the NFIP until 2017 and property owners who get NFIP coverage. If your property is flooded, you revamped the program in order to make * Take pictures or video of the damage should contact your insurance producer it actuarially sound going forward. In Help Reduce Your Flood Risks that occurred both inside and outside or insurance company right away. Have 2014, the Homeowner Flood Insurance Policyholders can take action to reduce your home before you begin to clean your policy or policy number handy at all Affordability Act was signed into law, their flood risks in several ways. They can: up. times and provide your phone numbers not only delaying but in effect canceling * Take a look at their current, effective and addresses where you can be reached some of the provisions of Biggert- flood maps. * Once inside your home, be on day or night. You will want to protect Waters by limiting increases in flood the lookout for animals - especially * Talk with the local floodplain administrator snakes. Such animals may have found your property from further damage. Take insurance premiums to no more than 18 to learn if there is a preliminary flood shelter in your home. Be careful photos of your damaged property and percent per year. The Act also repeals insurance rate map available. walking around. After flooding, steps make whatever reasonable temporary the property sales trigger that required * Know their risk and start planning for and floors may be slippery with mud repairs are needed. Especially cover homebuyers to pay the full-risk flood mitigation actions. and covered with debris such as nails broken windows and holes in the roof or insurance rate at the time of purchase. * Call their insurance agent for more details and broken glass. walls. Keep a record of these repairs for The measure also repeals the new policy on their policy. possible reimbursement by your insurance sales trigger which required property * Look into FEMA Mitigation programs * It is a good idea to hose down hard company. owners to pay full-risk rates when available to them. goods such as major appliances, even if they are destroyed. But do not throw the damaged hard goods away because the adjuster will need to see them. The adjuster can help you decide We’ve got mail what should be thrown away and what To assist Louisiana residents after a should be kept. They receive compensation from the storm, we’ve cleaned out the LDI mailbox insurer, not the insured. * It is best to throw out perishable to answer some of your most frequently Public adjusters, however, are hired foods as they may be contaminated. asked questions about post-disaster and paid by policyholders directly to If your homeowners policy covers insurance. Check them out below. represent them during the insurance claims perishable foods, keep an itemized process. They act on behalf of the insured, What steps can we take if we are not list of the things you throw out. Until compiling evidence to help support their happy with an adjuster’s estimation? Should we write down serial numbers local authorities proclaim your water clients and get them the best settlement of our property? supply safe, boil water for drinking Any Louisiana insurance consumer possible. When filing an insurance claim, it’s and food preparation for five minutes who feels that they have not been Common duties of a public adjuster are to: always best to record the model and serial before using. fairly compensated for their insurance numbers for all of your damaged property. claims can contact the LDI at 1-800- • Investigate and prepare claims on Doing so will greatly benefit you in * If possible, make temporary repairs 259-5300. Consumers may also file behalf of the insured. getting the best settlement for your claim to your property to prevent further a complaint against their insurance • Research and examine relevant and assist your adjuster during the claims losses from the elements and to secure company online at www.ldi.la.gov/ process. your property. This would include documents, including insurance ConsumerComplaintForm. Keep in mind boarding up windows, placing plastic policies and other forms. that in order to complete your complaint • Inspect property and determine the How should we document the damage over holes in the roof and drying for the insurance company? out wet carpets and furniture. Keep form, you will need to have your insurance amount for settling covered damages. receipts for materials used and keep a card, claim number, insurance company • Negotiate a settlement with the Taking photos and videos of your record of the repairs you make for the and/or agent name and any electronic insurance company. property is the best way to document adjuster. Do not make permanent documents you would like to attach to Does the insurance company need to see damages for your insurance company. repairs until you are authorized to your complaint. Creating a home inventory before a do so by the adjuster. the trash pile in front of our house in Can we hire an independent adjuster? order to make a claim? disaster strikes will help make the process of documenting damages to your * When making repairs, beware of No. Independent adjusters are Your insurance company will need to property a whole lot simpler. The National “fly-by-night” contractors. Get more representatives of insurance companies see proof of damage to properly process Association of Insurance Commissioners than one bid, and hire a local reputable and cannot be hired by policyholders. your claim. However, they do not need to (NAIC) offers a free downloadable app contractor to do the repairs. Do not pay They are typically contracted through an see actual damaged items as long as you for your smartphone called myHOME for repairs until the job is done. independent firm or agency to process and remember to take plenty of pictures of scr.APP.book that can help you document settle claims for an insurance company. them before they are discarded. photos and descriptions of your valuables. POST- DISASTER INSURANCE GUIDE PAGE 9

/ Personal Property Inventory

Living Room

Article Brand Date of Purchase Price ArticAlretic l e D Batera nofd Purchase Date of Purchase PricePrice

Carpet/Rugs Sound System Window Treatments CDs/DVDs Sofas Bookcases Ottomans Books Chairs Musical Instruments Coffee Tables Plants/Planters End Tables Mirrors Armoire/Enter. Center Collectibles Wall Hangings Clocks Television/DVD Lamps Computer & Printer Smart Phones Video Camera

Dining Room

ArticAlretic l e D Batera nofd Purcha seDa te of Purchase PricePrice ArticArletic l e D Batera nofd Purchase Date of Purchase PricePrice

Carpet/Rugs Crystal Window Treatments Glassware Buffet Clocks Tables Lamps/Fixtures Chairs Serving Table/Cart China Cabinet Table Linens China Wall Hangings Silverware Other

Bathrooms

ArticAlretic l e D Batera nofd Purchase D ate of Purchase PricePrice ArticArletic l e D Batera nofd Purchase Date of Purchase PricePrice

Clothes Hamper Scale Window Treatments Shower Curtain Wall Hangings Linens/Towels Mirrors Bath Mats/Rugs Dressing Table Toilet Articles Other Electrical Appliances PAGE 10 POST- DISASTER INSURANCE GUIDE

Kitchen

ArticAlretic l e D Batera nofd Purcha Dsea te of Purchase PricePrice Article Brand Date of Purchase Price

Table/Chairs Trash Compactor Linens/Towels Disposal Unit Window Treatments Freezer Cabinets Washer Lighting Fixtures Dryer Bowls Small Appliances Pots/Pans Clocks Utensils Radios Cutlery Step Stool Dishes Television Glassware Microwave Refrigerator Food Supplies Stove Wall Hangings Dishwasher Other

Bedrooms

ArticAlretic l e D Batera nofd Purchase D ate of Purchase PricePrice Article Brand Date of Purchase Price

Beds Mirrors Mattresses Clocks Bed covers/Linens Radios Dressers TV//DVD Player Jewelry Box/Contents Telephone Nightstands Toilet Articles Bookcases Computer Equipment Books Games Chairs Toys Carpet/Rugs Collectibles Window Treatments Clothing Lighting Fixtures Shoes Lamps Wall Hangings Armoires/Chests Other

Patio/Porch

ArticAlretic l e D Batera nofd Purchase D ate of Purchase PricePrice ArAticrticlele D a te of B Praurnchd ase Date of PurchaseP ricePrice

Tables Grill/Barbecue Pit Chairs Swing Set Other POST- DISASTER INSURANCE GUIDE PAGE 11

Attic/Garage/Storage Room

Article Brand Date of Purchase Price Article Brand Date of Purchase Price Article Date of Purchase Price

Furniture Wheelbarrow Luggage/Trunks Rake/Leaf Blower Exercise Equipment Lawn Mower Sports Equipment Weed Eater Camping Equipment Garden Tools Toys Ladders/Step Stools Outdoor Games Workbench Bicycles Shop Tools Lawn Decorations Pet Supplies Shovels/Hoes Vacuum Cleaner Sprinklers/Hoses Storage Freezer Other

Contact the LDI

Louisiana Department of Insurance 1702 N. 3rd Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802 P.O. Box 94214, Baton Rouge, LA 70804 www.ldi.la.gov

General Information: (800) 259-5300, or (225) 342-5900 Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP): (225) 342-5301 Agents Licensing: (225) 342-0860 Company Licensing: (225) 342-1251 Insurance Rating: (225) 342-5203 Fraud Investigation: (225) 342-4956 Consumer Services: (225) 342-1258 Consumer Advocacy: (225) 219-0619 Louisiana Department of Insurance

POST - DISASTER INSURANCE GUIDE

Important Flood Information

There are resources to help you begin rebuilding after the danger has passed. Flood insurance is the most powerful of those resources. Flooding is generally not covered under standard and commercial insurance policies. Flood insurance is available through a separate policy under FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program and some private insurers. If you have flood insurance your first step once you are safe and dry is to contact your insurance agent and file a claim. If your insurance agent is unavailable or unreachable, contact the main claims hotline for you insurance company to file a claim and get the ball rolling.

Whether you have insurance or not, everyone who has damage to their home or incurred a loss because of the storm should file for disaster help with FEMA. Visit www.disasterassistance.gov to start the process with FEMA. There is no penalty for filing a claim with FEMA unless your claim is fraudulent or based on untrue claims of damage. If you do not have insurance and your home meets certain requirements, you may be eligible for assistance from the government with rebuilding your home. There are also resources available for expenses incurred while you are unable to return to your home and losses that were the result of power loss across the area even if your home did not take on water.

Businesses may be covered by a commercial flood policy. Call your agent or read your policy to find out under what circumstances you can file a claim.

For more information about flooding insurance for home, business and auto, call the Department of Insurance at 1-800-259-5300. Information is also available on the website at www.ldi.la.gov.