- Contact Your Insurance Company: Request a complete copy of your insurance policy to understand your coverage, rights, & entitlements. This will be your primary reference as you proceed.
- Hire a Public Adjuster: A public adjuster is an independent insurance professional who represents a policyholder in settling an insurance claim. They are not employed by the insurance company & work on behalf of the policyholder. They may help get you a better valuation than the insurer’s adjuster. It’s recommended to tell the insurer you intend to rebuild (even if you ultimately decide not to rebuild). This may cause the insurer to take the claim more seriously. There may also be additional coverage for rebuilding.
- Apply for FEMA Assistance: After filing a claim with your insurance provider, you can begin their recovery by applying for FEMA assistance. This can be done via the FEMA app, by calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, or by visiting their website. FEMA will offer to clear the debris. Accept this offer unless you have something unique about your property (i.e., septic system, pool, or other concerns). If you don’t use FEMA assistance with debris removal, you’ll have to try to recoup the cost of debris removal later.
- Document Every Interaction: Maintain a detailed record of all conversations with your insurance company, including dates, times, & discussion points. Whenever possible, record phone calls for your reference. This documentation can help resolve discrepancies if they arise.
- Track Living Expenses: Many insurance policies cover additional living expenses during displacement. Keep detailed records of your spending, save receipts, & create a log to ensure nothing is overlooked.
- Don’t Rush Into Signing Anything: Take your time to review any settlement offers or paperwork. Do not feel pressured to agree immediately. Understand the terms fully before signing, as it’s difficult to renegotiate once a document is signed.
- Beware of Scammers: Be cautious of unsolicited offers for services or requests for personal information. Verify the legitimacy of anyone offering assistance to avoid scams.
- Prioritize Immediate Needs: In the wake of a disaster, focus on securing basic essentials like clothing, undergarments, & a safe place to sleep. You and your loved ones’ comfort, health, & well-being are the top priorities in this immediate time frame.
For a full checklist of what to have in the event of a natural disaster or evacuation, please download our Beacon Pointe evacuation checklist to make sure you have what you need.
We hope this information is of value to you and can help you stay safe should an emergency situation arise and remember to follow local and national law enforcement guidelines.
Important Disclosure: This content is for informational purposes only. Opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice. Beacon Pointe has exercised all reasonable professional care in preparing this information. Some information may have been obtained from third-party sources we believe to be reliable; however, Beacon Pointe has not independently verified, or attested to, the accuracy or authenticity of the information. Nothing contained herein should be construed or relied upon as investment, legal or tax advice. Only private legal counsel may recommend the application of this general information to any particular situation or prepare an instrument chosen to implement the design discussed herein. An investor should consult with their financial professional before making any investment decisions.