Losing property during a natural disaster like Hurricane Florence, whether residential or business (or both), is stressful and overwhelming. For most survivors, however, that’s only the beginning of what can be a very long ordeal.

The silver lining is that filing hurricane claims can be less stressful when you know what to do and how to do it. There are certain steps to take that can help to make certain you are fairly compensated.

Step 1: Notify Your Insurer

Chances are that your insurer will be aware that a disaster has occurred because of media coverage. Nonetheless, contacting your insurance carrier should be your first step. Contact should be made as quickly as possible, even if the initial cleanup takes several weeks or months as has been the case for Hurricane Florence. Like emergency room doctors working triage, insurance adjusters will take inventory of the most severely damaged properties first, so if yours has been completely destroyed or suffered heavy damage, you’ll want to make certain your property is examined early on.

When you contact your insurer, make sure you have your policy number and be prepared to record the claim number they will provide. That way, whoever winds up processing your claim will be able to locate your file quickly.

Step 2: Document Everything

As much as possible, make a video and/or photographic evidence of all damaged property, both real and personal. This includes high-value items such as appliances, vehicles, furnishings, entertainment items (such as televisions, stereos and large musical instruments like pianos or organs), power tools and electronics (computers).

In preparing to file their hurricane claims, Florence survivors need to make a list of all missing or destroyed property as well, including anything that must be disposed of due to safety concerns. Such a list should include the date of purchase and, as far as can be determined, the current and replacement value of said items. If possible, collect original purchase receipts and provide these to the claims adjuster.

Step 4: Mitigation

As soon as all losses have been recorded and documented, take all possible steps to mitigate any additional damage. This may include boarding up broken windows or putting temporary patches on the roof – but do not attempt to make any permanent repairs. That’s a job for professionals, and should be covered by your settlement. Furthermore, do not dispose of any damaged items remaining until the claims adjuster has had an opportunity to examine everything.

What Else to Know About Filing Hurricane Claims

Part of your settlement should include reimbursement for an apartment or hotel room rental or other temporary housing expenses you may incur, should your home be uninhabitable. If your business was affected, keep a record of lost revenue as well as physical damages as well. In the meantime, start gathering bids (at least two) from certified contractors for all repairs that may be required and be prepared to submit these to your claims adjuster.

Finally, create a file, including a claims journal. Information that should be included: all contacts with your insurer, including the names of who you spoke with, the time and date and any issues that were discussed. The file should also include copies of any documents or forms you receive or submit.