HURRICANE IKE VICTIMS SHOULD BE VIGILANT
WHEN FILING INSURANCE CLAIMS
Homeowners should take the following steps when dealing with their insurance company:
Take Documentation. Make a comprehensive inventory of the household items lost in the storm, and keep receipts from emergency repairs and temporary housing costs.
Track Communications with Your Insurance Company. Keep a log of all communications with your insurance carrier, including anytime they fail to return a call or miss a scheduled appointment.
Be Careful What You Sign. Do not sign anything you do not fully understand. Make sure all documents are explained thoroughly so that you know what you are signing and how it will affect your claim.
Ask for Proof. If your insurer tells you that you are not covered, require them to offer proof. The burden is on the carrier to point to the exclusion in your policy.
Complain if Necessary. If you believe that you are being treated unfairly by your insurance carrier, file a complaint with the Texas Department of Insurance and/or the Texas Attorney General’s Office. Contact Texas Watch’s Ike Insurance Hotline at 1-888-738-4226 for assistance in filing complaints.
Homeowners are encouraged to be vigilant when dealing with their insurance company after major disasters such as Hurricane Ike. Insurance abuse proved to be rampant after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and victims of Hurricane Ike must take steps to protect themselves from unfair insurance practices. One way homeowners may protect themselves is by contacting the attorneys at Walker & Crawford, P.C., who are standing by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to answer questions concerning storm-related insurance claims.
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