Louisiana – Hurricane Francine has left a trail of destruction in Louisiana, and as the state begins to recover, the Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) is providing essential guidance to policyholders navigating the claims process.
Commissioner Tim Temple emphasized the importance of contacting insurance providers first and being cautious of unscrupulous contractors offering services. “My prayers are with our friends and neighbors who are dealing with significant property damage in the aftermath of Hurricane Francine,” Temple said. “If you need to file a claim, contact your insurer first. Make sure you hire reputable contractors during the recovery process and be wary of anyone you did not contact offering to do work on your home.”
The LDI has developed a comprehensive guide for policyholders, offering valuable tips on filing claims, working with insurers, and preventing contractor fraud.
Filing a Claim and Working with Insurers
Immediately after the storm, policyholders should take photos or videos of the damage, make temporary repairs to prevent further damage, and keep receipts for materials used. It’s essential to contact insurance agents or companies as soon as possible, gathering policy information and understanding the claims process.
Policyholders should be aware of their hurricane/named storm deductible, which is the amount they must pay out of pocket before insurance coverage kicks in. They should also know that they can file supplemental claims if the actual damage to their home is more extensive than initially documented.
Preventing Contractor Fraud
The LDI and the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) are warning policyholders to be vigilant of dishonest contractors taking advantage of vulnerable homeowners. To avoid falling prey to contractor fraud, policyholders should:
- Assess damages and contact their insurance company for clarification on coverage
- Recruit a licensed, insured, and well-reviewed contractor
- Research and verify a contractor’s credentials, reputation, and track record
- Get multiple quotes and beware of significantly low bids
- Insist on a written contract outlining the scope of work, materials, timeline, and payment schedule
- Stay involved in the project and monitor progress
- Seek legal advice if necessary
The LDI’s new app, LDIConnect, provides the public with emergency alerts, access to department resources, and a messaging service for questions. The app is available for download in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.