Storm season has arrived, as many of our customers experienced last night. In the event that your vehicle(s), property, home and/or other personal valuables are damaged by hail, tornado, wind or any other weather related event here is a quick reference guide on steps you should take after the storm:
Damage to Vehicles:
1. Contact your GTA agent or your insurance company immediately to report the damage.
2. Do not have any repairs done until after you have spoken with and/or an adjuster comes to inspect your vehicle.
3. When speaking with your adjuster ask if your insurance company has a preferred, reputable body shop or contact your desired local body shop.
4. Find out how long the repairs will take & get an estimate.
5. Provide the estimate to your GTA agent or adjuster for approval.
6. Make sure your vehicle is repaired to your satisfaction.
Damage to your Home:
1. In extreme situations (leaking roof, broken windows, etc.), take all the necessary precautions to prevent further property damage.
2. Take pictures of the damaged property (siding, windows) & hail stones.
**Note, do not put your life in danger taking pictures & do not climb on the roof to inspect; look for obvious signs of roof damage, such as missing or torn shingles, leaks, etc.
3. Contact your GTA agent or your insurance company immediately to report the damage.
4. Wait to be contacted by an adjuster, represented by your insurance company, who will inspect your property for any and all storm related damages.
5. If items have been damaged in your home or property, separate damaged contents from undamaged contents. Do not discard any items until the claims adjuster gives you the authority to do so.
6. After getting approval from the adjuster, contact a reputable contractor to get repair estimates, or ask if your insurance company can refer a company to you.
7. The contracting company should provide free damage estimates; however, if prompted, do not sign anything!
8. Provide a copy of the estimate to your insurance company for approval.
9. Once approved, give the contractor the ‘ok’ to complete any agreed upon repairs.
10. Make sure your property is repaired to your satisfaction and submit any unpaid or pending invoices to your GTA agent or adjuster for payment.
If you encounter any unusual delays or problems in the handling of your claim, please contact your GTA office and/or agent for assistance. We appreciate your business and are here to assist you!