FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 26, 2019

Department of Insurance Offers Guidance

Following Tornado and Storm Damage

Victims of this month's severe weather can find help regarding insurance claims by contacting the Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI). Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon is encouraging policyholders to become familiar with their insurance coverage before filing a claim.

“Check your homeowners and business insurance policies for coverage limits and  deductibles and remember our staff is available to help if you have questions about your policy or filing a claim,” said Commissioner Donelon. “Know that storms are considered ‘Acts of God’ or ‘Acts of Nature’ and an insurance company cannot cancel, refuse to renew or increase the amount of a premium on a homeowners policy based solely on this type of incident.”

Renters should remember a landlord’s insurance policy will cover the actual building not a tenant’s personal belongings. A renters insurance policy protects your personal possessions if they’re damaged or destroyed.

The LDI has the following tips for those recovering from storms:

  • Contact your agent or insurance company promptly if you determine you need to file a claim.
  • If you have lost your agent or insurance company’s contact information, the Louisiana Department of Insurance may be able to help you locate it. Contact the department at Call 1-800-259-5300 or visit www.ldi.la.gov.
  • Take pictures of any damage and make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. For example, a hole in the roof should be covered by a tarp or other materials. Further damage will likely not be covered by your insurance policy.
  • Keep the receipts for materials you buy and for any expenses related to damage to your home.
  • Do not make permanent repairs until your insurance company has inspected the damage.

If you believe your insurance company is not properly handling your claim, you can file a complaint with the Louisiana Department of Insurance.

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.