Claims Process

VEHICLE LOSS

1. In the event of a vehicle loss, contact the insurance company directly or our office to file the claim. Contact information for your insurance company can be found in your policy documents or on the carrier website.
2. When filing a claim, have the following information available:
   • Policy Number
   • Date that the damages occurred (date of loss)
   • Address of the damaged location or location of accident
   • Contact information for any additional contacts (i.e. contractors, property managers, other parties involved)
   • Be prepared to describe loss and the extent of the damages

Once the claim is received, an adjuster will be assigned. They will contact you within 24-48 business hours to obtain more detailed information about the loss and discuss the claim process with you. Please make sure the mailing address and lien-holder information is correct on the policy. If there are any changes needed, please let us know as soon as possible so we can submit an endorsement change for the policy to be updated.

PROPERTY LOSS

1. Report the loss immediately. The insurance contract requires notification as soon as possible after a loss. Be sure to provide a telephone number where you can be contacted especially if you are unable to reside in the property. TAKE PICTURES!
2. Review your policy. Please note that each person’s coverage is unique to their specific policy.
3. Make necessary temporary repairs to prevent further damages such as covering the roof, boarding up the windows to prevent additional interior water damage, or removing fallen debris. Retain receipts for the repairs and provide copies to the adjuster. DO NOT make permanent repairs to your damaged property unless the adjuster has reviewed your claim and given permission to restore your property.
4. Take steps to protect the property from theft or vandalism.
5. When it can be done safely, take photographs of the damages. This will help you with the presentation of your claim and will assist the adjuster in the investigation. Pre-loss pictures are also helpful in documenting your loss.
6. When possible, obtain an estimate for permanent repair or replacement of the damage. Unit or line item cost estimates are preferred.
7. Choose your repair contractor carefully. Check with the Better Business Bureau before doing business with a contractor you do not know. The Wisconsin Department of Insurance recommends the use of a licensed and bonded contractor.
8. Once a claim is settled, your payment may include the mortgagee listed on the policy. Contact the mortgage company to verify their procedures for endorsing the check.

TIPS FOR PREPARING FOR A CATASTROPHIC EVENT

For tips for preparing for a catastrophic event, please see the links below or check with your local civic authorities.

www.ncdoi.com
www.nhc.noaa.gov