Division of Insurance shares tips after severe hailstorm pummels eastern Colorado

A strong hailstorm rolled through eastern Colorado on Monday, affecting Yuma, Wray, Akron, among other communities. Our state is prone to hail storms in the summertime, and with this recent storm, the Colorado Division of Insurance (DOI), part of the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), is providing information to those with damaged homes and cars.

Tips for dealing with storm damage and insurance

• The claims process must be started as soon as possible by contacting your insurance company or agent. If you need the contact information for your company or agent, contact the DOI.
• Ensure the damage to your home or car is documented and mitigated – Take photos and document the damage if the damage is extensive. It is important to know that many companies allow you to submit photos when filing a claim. If necessary, place tarps on roofs, board up windows, place plastic sheeting over windows, or cover cars to prevent further damage.
• Make sure you know what your home and auto deductibles are – You are responsible for paying your deductibles. You can find out the deductibles on your policy declarations. The deductible for wind / hail on homeowners’ insurance is usually a percentage of your coverage (for example, 1%, 2% or 5%). In addition to your comprehensive coverage, your deductible applies to damage to your automobiles. The insurance company will not pay for damage estimates that fall below your deductible.
• Get answers – Your insurance company will assign a claims adjuster to assess the damage after you file a claim. Your insurance company will determine your claim settlement once your adjuster has completed their assessment. A detailed explanation of the claim settlement offer should be requested from the claims adjuster. The company should provide you with the specific language in the policy that is in dispute if there is disagreement about the claim settlement. Obtain a written letter explaining the reason for the denial and the specific policy language under which the claim has been denied if this disagreement results in a claim denial.
• Be prepared to negotiate if the first offer from an insurance company doesn’t meet your expectations. Ask a contractor for several quotes if you are unsure about the value of your claim.
• Publich Adjusters – A public adjuster may contact you following a severe storm like this. Licensed by the DOI, public adjusters work on behalf of consumers and often charge a percentage of the claim amount. Public adjusters and consumers agree on the fee in their contract. A public adjuster is not required, but if you do hire one, be sure their license is valid, check their references, and if you can, hire one based in Colorado. Be sure to read any contract carefully.
• Make Sure You’re Protected Against Roofing Fraud – Construction contractors and roofing contractors may solicit customers door-to-door after hail or wind storms. It is advisable to be cautious when working with anyone who has contacted you in this manner. Make sure you check references, hire Colorado-based contractors whenever possible, get everything in writing, and read contracts carefully. Protect yourself from “storm chasers” after a natural disaster.
• Repair estimates can change – It is important to remember that the first estimate for repairs is not always the final estimate. Once repairs begin, contractors and body shops may find additional damage. It is important to provide your insurer with additional information about this damage before allowing the repair work to begin. If approved, the insurer will issue a supplement. There will be no coverage for improvements or repairs made to damage that wasn’t caused by the storm.
• Contact the DOI – While your claims need to be filed with your insurance company, the DOI can assist consumers with questions about insurance and the claims process. Contact the DOI Consumer Services Team at: 303-894-7490 / DORA_Insurance@state.co.us / doi.colorado.gov (click on “File a Complaint”).

Know what’s in your policy

In Colorado, summer means more severe weather. Understand what’s in your homeowners’ insurance policy and become familiar with it. You can ask your company or agent if there is anything you don’t understand. In addition, make sure your policy and coverage limits keep up with your needs and local construction costs every year. As a homeowner, one of the most difficult times is when you have to file a claim, especially if the damage is extensive.