Department of Insurance Offers Assistance to Policyholders Impacted by Severe Storms

Residents of areas impacted by severe weather can contact the Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) with questions about their insurance coverage. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says policyholders who experienced property damage can get assistance in filing their claim or in filing a complaint if that becomes necessary.

“We are in spring storm season and severe weather can produce damaging hail, flooding, strong winds and even tornadoes,” said Commissioner Donelon. “Whether you’re a single homeowner or a small business owner, if you’re a policyholder whose property suffered from storm damage, we encourage you to promptly contact your agent or insurance company.”

Losses due to flooding are not covered under typical homeowners and business insurance policies. If you do have flood coverage, check for any limitations contained in your policy. To find out information about the National Flood Insurance Program contact an agent or visit www.floodsmart.gov.

• Most policies require property owners to protect their property from further damage after a storm so that it is necessary to make temporary repairs as soon as possible. Keep the receipts for such repairs so you can be reimbursed.
• Storms are considered “Acts of God” or “Acts of Nature,” that are beyond human control. Common examples are severe storms, tornadoes, hurricanes and earthquakes. Your insurance company cannot cancel, refuse to renew or increase the amount of the premium on your homeowners policy based solely on a loss caused by an Act of God.
• If you believe your insurance company has not handled your claim properly, you may file a complaint with the Louisiana Department of Insurance. The LDI will determine whether your insurance company has followed Louisiana law and abided by the terms of your policy in processing your claim.

Consumers can contact the LDI with questions or file a complaint by calling 1-800-259-5300 or visiting www.ldi.la.gov.

About the Louisiana Department of Insurance: The Louisiana Department of Insurance works to improve competition in the state’s insurance market while assisting individuals and businesses with the information and resources they need to be informed consumers of insurance. As a regulator, the LDI enforces the laws that provide a fair and stable marketplace and makes certain that insurers comply with the laws in place to protect policyholders. You can contact the LDI by calling 1-800-259-5300 or visiting www.ldi.la.gov.