01/01/2022
Advice for those affected by Colorado’s catastrophic fires.
- Buy a spiral bound notebook for each claim you have. Many people will have a homeowners claim and at least one auto claim. You will have different people assisting you through each claim. Dedicate the first page to recording contact information of the people you are working with. You should also write your insurance claim number on this page. Most companies you work with will need to have your claim number and adjuster contact.
- Save your receipts. If you need buy food, toothbrushes, clothing, etc. save your receipts in an envelope. If you can keep them in chronological order that will help your adjuster get you reimbursed more efficiently. Different policies provide different coverages. Partner with your adjuster to find out what benefit your policy is able to provide.
- Most insurance policies will help you with temporary housing while your home is unlivable. Ask your agent or adjuster about this coverage.
- Be skeptical of solicitors. Anyone who wants you to sign a contract right away, may not have your best interest at heart. Talk to your insurance agent about who is reputable, do your own research, ask for references. If you do sign a contract you don’t feel right about, you have 72 hours to cancel it without reason. Provide the cancelation in writing and save a copy. Anyone performing emergency repairs will need you to sign a contract authorizing them to work on your home. Just read the document and make sure you are aware of what you are agreeing to. You can make handwritten changes as needed. Just make sure you get a copy.
- If your home is without power, frozen pipes are a concern. If you are able to access your home, you can do some simple things to minimize your chances of damage from frozen pipes. First and foremost, turn off the main water supply to your home, this is commonly in your utility room but may be located somewhere else. After the main water supply is turned off, open all of your faucets. If possible, drain your water heater. Minimally open the water heater pressure relief valve. Flush toilets and pour RV Antifreeze into the tanks and bowls. Open outside hose faucets.
- Take photos in each room of your home. Take at least four photos of each room. One photo from each corner. Detailed photos of higher dollar or rare items are also a good idea.
- Take time for yourself. Sleep. Exercise. Find reasons to laugh. Make this an adventure for children. They will mirror your attitude and reactions.
- Ask questions. This is a stressful event and you may forget answers to questions you already asked. That is okay. Those of us that help others through these types of situations understand you may need to ask the same question multiple times and we want you to ask until you have a good understanding.
- First Responders, Insurance Companies, Contractors, Humanitarian Aid Workers and many more are mobilizing to ensure they can help everyone.
