FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 16, 2019

Department of Insurance Offers Tips on Recovery After Hurricane Barry

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon is offering guidance to homeowners and businesses impacted by Hurricane Barry. He also advises residents to exercise caution while surveying damage to their homes and businesses. Standing water, even low levels, can be hiding debris such as broken glass or downed power lines.

“While many are saying that Hurricane Barry amounted to little more than a ‘close call,’ there are still Louisiana residents who suffered significant losses. I urge those who did and need assistance filing insurance claims to contact their agents or the Department of Insurance to get guidance on their next steps,” said Commissioner Donelon.

The Louisiana Department of Insurance offers the following tips on preparing to file a claim:

  • Contact your insurance agent or company regarding your claim as soon as possible. Have your policy readily available when you call to make your claim. You can reach the Department of Insurance at 1-800-259-5300 for assistance or get guidance from our website at www.ldi.la.gov.

    For insured flood losses, a proof of loss form must be filed within 60 days of the date of your loss.
  • Minimize your losses and document your damage. All homeowners and flood policies require property owners to minimize their loss. Take photos of any damage and then make whatever reasonable temporary repairs are needed. Keep receipts for expenses incurred in making such repairs.

  • Save your other receipts. If you are unable to stay in your home due to damage from a storm, hold on to your receipts for lodging, food and essentials. Your policy may cover a portion of the costs while you are temporarily relocated.

  • Ask for identification from adjusters and do your homework before hiring a contractor. Consumers are reminded to conduct a prudent review of any contractors prior to signing any repair agreements. Take time to verify that they have current insurance coverage, contact references directly and, if required, contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to ensure that the contractor’s license is valid. Additional guidance can be obtained from your local Better Business Bureau.

Flooding is generally not covered under standard residential and commercial insurance policies. Flood insurance is available through a separate policy under FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program and some private insurers

“Although the majority of the state experienced a much less powerful storm than was forecasted, we should not become complacent,” said Commissioner Donelon. “What happened with Hurricane Barry will not have any bearing on the next storm to head our way. Take time this week to evaluate your hurricane plans and as I say repeatedly, flood insurance is the best insurance buy a property owner can make anywhere in Louisiana.”

 

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.