How to report storm damage in Delaware

With the aftermath of Delaware’s first spring storm now underway, here are some ideas to help people who may have storm damage to their property. First, ensure everyone is safe and it is safe to enter the area. Next, contact the insurance company before cleaning up or making repairs. Take pictures of any damage. After taking photographs, take steps that will prevent further damage (cover broken windows, damaged walls and leaking roofs), but do not make permanent repairs.

If people suffer property loss, their insurance company should inspect the property first, and an agreement should be reached on the cost of permanent repairs. Save all receipts, including those from temporary repairs, for the insurance adjuster. With proper documentation and the property owner’s full cooperation, delays in processing claims can be avoided.

Delaware Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro said, “I’d like to emphasize the importance of taking the aforementioned actions when making a claim with your insurance company. These are important steps that will greatly assist you if the need arises to make a claim. The storm last night that brought significant damage to parts of Sussex County and some other areas of our state is a reminder that these events can happen with little or no warning, and change lives forever.”

In the unfortunate event that one suffers property loss or damage, a home inventory makes the claims process much easier. Including the brand name, model and serial numbers, date of purchase, receipts and photos in the inventory helps the insurance company make a quick and accurate assessment of the loss. An alternative to a written inventory is to photograph or video each room of the home and its respective content. The more detailed the photographs or video (open drawers, closets, sheds and garages), the more accurately the loss can be evaluated.

For posterity, people should email inventories, photographs, policies and emergency lists to themselves and/or a trusted friend or family member living outside the storm’s threat area. Keeping one’s insurance policy, inventory and quick reference list together and stored in a waterproof, fireproof box or safe is a good idea. If owners evacuate, they should remember to take this information with them.

For a printable home inventory, go to https://insurance.delaware.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2018/09/Home-Inventory-Form-2018.pdf.

For more information or help with problems processing claims, contact the Delaware Department of Insurance at 302-674-7300 or go to www.insurance.delaware.gov.