Tornado Damage in Elkhorn, Nebraska and Minden, Iowa

What to do if my insurance won’t cover all of my tornado damage?

We must take a moment to understand that during periods of distress and natural disasters there are multiple efforts to assist homeowners, insured’s, business owners, and any personnel that file an insurance claim. Here is a list of things to do immediately,

1. Check for injuries: Check yourself and others for injuries. Administer first aid if necessary, but remember to only attempt to provide assistance if it’s safe to do so.
2. Watch out for hazards: Be cautious of any hazards such as broken glass, downed power lines, or damaged buildings. Avoid entering damaged buildings until authorities have deemed them safe.
3. Listen to authorities: Follow the instructions of local authorities and emergency services personnel. They will provide guidance on evacuation routes, shelters, and other important information.
4. Assess the damage: Once it’s safe to do so, assess the damage to your property. Take photos or videos of any damage for insurance purposes.
5. Contact loved ones: Let your loved ones know that you’re safe. If you’ve been separated from family members, try to establish contact with them as soon as possible.
6. Seek shelter if necessary: If your home has been severely damaged or is unsafe to stay in, seek shelter at a designated evacuation center or with friends or family.
7. Turn off utilities: If you suspect any damage to your home’s gas, water, or electrical lines, turn off the appropriate utilities.
8. Listen for updates: Stay tuned to local news and radio stations for updates on the situation and any additional safety information.
9. Help your neighbors: Check on your neighbors, especially those who may need assistance such as elderly or disabled individuals.
10. Document damage: Document any damage to your property by taking photos or videos. This will be important for insurance claims.

Now here are options to consider if you do not receive enough funds from your insurance company.

1. Contact your local Public Insurance Adjuster. We have an office in Omaha, Nebraska that services all of Nebraska and Iowa. Claim Commander Inc. assists personnel through these types of damages. We document the repair process, we itemize your personal property list, and we work with your insurance carrier to find you a proper place to stay. The additional living expense portion of your policy provides the support for housing, food, and unexpected expenses during a time of difficulty.
2. There are local groups that can provide funds or food for periods of time. Typically local news channels, radio stations, and shelters.
3. FEMA is another option. FEMA provides certain requirements before they can move forward with your application. Here are some details below,
   • To help FEMA assess your application, you can provide several insurance-status documents based on your claim and correspondence from your insurance company, including:
     • Denial of your claim letter: Proof that you are not covered under your insurance company and policy.
     • Settlement letter: What damage and property are covered by your insurance policy.
     • Delay letter: Proof of no official decision by your insurance company on your claim, and it has been more than 30 days from the time that you filed your insurance claim.
     • FEMA determines what help you may be eligible for based on the specifics of each FEMA application, including the documentation provided.
     • FEMA has a local number in your area that can be of further assistance.

How Do I Repair My Home Properly AfterA Tornado?

1. Shop around for contractors. Keep in mind there are typically only a limited amount of contractors that work with all of the current damage in the area. Get quotes and make sure you are hiring someone that is capable of the job. These jobs require a large scope of repairs: reframing, replacing roofs, replacing siding, interior water damage, flooring, replacing windows & doors, and the list goes on and on. Hiring a Public Insurance Adjuster takes away these concerns. We can do the research with you. Claim Commander Inc. typically will do the research with you to find the best team to repair your property.

Keep in touch as we provide further details about the other necessary steps to properly go through an insurance claim after tornado damage.