We can’t avoid disaster if it comes to us. Make sure first that you and your whole family is safe. Worrying about property damage is second but it is important to think about how you will file your insurance claim. If your home is damaged and you also force to evacuate, don’t be panic. Call your home insurance agent immediately and notice them what happened to you.

It is important to keep your insurance agent number in your wallet. So, in such situation you can call of any damages you feel you will need to file a claim for. Then your insurance agent will give you information on what steps to take next for your particular policy. Keep your communication between you and your home insurance agent.

If you have time, try to record your home and inventory damages then keep them for your documentation. And ensure to take a tape with you when you evacuate. You are responsible for preventing future damage, so try to make any immediate repairs you can such as putting a tarp over a leaky roof. Also make sure you save the receipts from the supplies you use so you can be reimbursed for these expenses (make sure the expenses are reasonable to avoid a denial in reimbursement).

Make a list of items you suspect are damaged or missing. It is important to remember everything that was damaged. If you have replacement cost coverage on your personal property items, many of your items should be replaced new.

People with more severe damaged will be handled first. So, wait patiently and also keep in touch with your home insurance agent during your waiting period. 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.