Community Corner

Malloy: Document Your Storm Damage

The state has added 1,900 adjusters to help residents with their claims.

Following a tour of storm-damaged areas in East Haven and West Haven today, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy urged Connecticut residents to document any damages to their property carefully and call the state’s Insurance Department if they have any questions.

“It was clear from the preliminary coverage of Hurricane Irene that Connecticut residents sustained a great deal of damage to their property,” Malloy said. “After touring some of the hardest-hit areas in East Haven and West Haven personally, it’s clear we have our work cut out for ourselves as we begin to fully grasp the damages associated with this storm.”

Prior to the storm the state licensed new insurance adjusters to assist with processing damage claims.

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“We worked with the insurance companies ahead of the storm to license an additional 1,900 adjusters on top of those we already have licensed in Connecticut so homeowners who experienced damage due to Hurricane Irene could get an insurance assessment as quickly as possible,” said Thomas Leonardi, the insurance department commissioner. “My department staff understand the situation we’re in due to this storm, and they’re ready to help homeowners first thing Monday morning.”

Malloy and Leonardi released the following tips for homeowners who experienced storm-related damage:

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Document the damage with photos or videos.

Make a list of the damaged items and compile any receipts you have for them.

Make temporary repairs for your safety and the safety of your property.

Typical homeowners’ policies do not cover damage from floods caused by overflowing rivers, streams, tidal waters and storm surges. Flood insurance would be required in that case. Important to note: There is a 30-day waiting period from the time you buy flood insurance until the time it goes into effect.

Most homeowners’ policies will cover tree removal only if the tree fell and damaged property, such as a building or vehicle. If it falls in a yard and doesn’t hit anything, removal costs are generally not covered by insurance. Always consult your agent, company or read your policy to be sure.

Your insurance policy or insurance card has a toll-free claims number. If you cannot find your policy, the insurance department has a list of insurers on its Web site that includes both the company websites and toll-free numbers. This information is also available on the state’s Irene website page and through the state’s information line, 211.

The insurance department will be staffed tomorrow (Monday) to help policyholders with questions and concerns.


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