The hurricane/disaster has passed. Because you were prepared, you, your family and pets are all safe.  However, your home has sustained storm-related damage.  Where does the rebuilding process begin?

• File a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible. Call your insurance company or agent with your policy number and other relevant information. Your policy may require that you make the notification within a certain time frame.
• Be sure you cooperate fully with the insurance company. Ask what documents, forms and data you will need to the file a claim. Keep a diary of all conversations with insurance company, creditors or relief agencies.
• Be certain to give your insurance company all the information they need. Incorrect or incomplete information will only cause a delay in processing your claim.
• If your home is damaged to the extent that you can't live there, ask your insurance company if you have coverage for additional living expenses.
• Take photographs/video of the damage.
• Make the repairs necessary to prevent further damage to your property (cover broken windows, leaking roofs and damaged walls). Don't have permanent repairs made until your insurance company has inspected the property and you have reached an agreement on the cost of repairs. Be prepared to provide the claims adjuster with records of any improvements you made prior to the damage.
• Maintain any damaged personal property for the adjuster to inspect.
• Ask the adjuster for an itemized explanation of the claim settlement offer.
• Save all receipts, including those from the temporary repairs.  They may be covered by your insurance policy.
• If you can't cover all your expenses, contact your creditors to negotiate a payment plan.
• If there is a disagreement about a claim, ask the company for the specific language in the policy in question and determine why you and the company interpret your policy differently.
• If the first offer made by an insurance company does not meet your expectations, be prepared to negotiate to get a fair settlement.

If you believe you need assistance with a hurricane-related insurance issue, you can link to the State of Florida Department of Financial Services website by visiting http://www.fldfs.com/Consumers/hurricane_2007/index.htm or calling 1-800-227-8676.