4.Compile a list of items you suspect are damaged or missing. Go one room at a time and have the whole family there to help remember everything that was previously in the room. If you have replacement cost coverage on your personal property items, many of your items should be replaced new, even if their current value is below that cost (ex: a new couch will replace an old couch that may have been only worth a few dollars) so it is important to remember everything that was damaged. This step is much easier if previously an inventory list of items was already compiled and kept in a safe place away from the home.

5.Wait patiently. If your area has just been through a severe disaster, people with more severe damage will most likely be handled first. Keep in touch with your home insurance agent during your waiting period to get updates on how your home owners insurance claim is coming along. If you feel you are not being treated fairly or your claim is being handled inappropriately you can contact your state insurance commissioner to file a complaint. Don’t forget your loss of use coverage usually available in your home owners insurance policy, which will cover reasonable living expenses if you cannot live in your home during repairs or have been denied access by a government order. Bobbie Sage