HARRISBURG, Pa., Dec. 17 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As Pennsylvanians clean up from wind and ice storms that affected many parts of the state over the weekend, acting state Insurance Commissioner Joel Ario today advised consumers to check what types of damage might be covered by their insurance policies.

"There may be some confusion about what is covered in your insurance policy," Ario said. "Most damage resulting from fallen trees is covered by homeowners policies, but consumers should check with their company before calling a tree removal service as removal costs may also be covered. Also, consumers may be held responsible if one of their trees has fallen on a neighbor's property.

"Consumers should also ask their insurance company about food spoilage as a result of a power outage, debris clean up, structural damage to your home, rain spouts, sewage problems, broken water pipes, freezing pipes and furnace damage, to name a few.

"Homeowners should report all losses to their insurance companies as soon as possible, but bear in mind that you have a choice whether or not you would want to be reimbursed for out of pocket expenses, less your deductible. Your homeowners insurance company could surcharge your policy for paying more than one loss within a three-year period. So if the claim amount is minimal, you may want to carefully balance the amount of your recovery versus having a claim loss against your policy," Ario said.

If a consumer has comprehensive coverage on their auto insurance policy, damages to their vehicle, less the applicable deductible will be covered. Consumers should contact their insurance agent or company immediately to start the claim process.

To prevent even more damage or more loss, consumers should be proactive and cut down any hanging tree limbs and clear their driveways and sidewalks. Also, the appropriate utility companies should be contacted regarding possible power issues or water turn off issues.

"Consumers may be feeling a little overwhelmed as they try to clean up and recover from yesterday's storms," Ario said. "If you have experienced damage to your home or property, I encourage you to take the following steps:

-- Contact your insurance company immediately to report your loss. Follow the instructions given to you by claims personnel. Since there may be a lot of people needing help at the same time, anything you have done before the disaster to prepare for a loss will be to your benefit now.

-- Take notes and pictures. Start from the beginning and keep a log of the people you spoke with and when. Summarize your conversation. Ask questions if you do not understand instructions. If possible, take pictures of the damage inside and outside of your home.

-- Figure out the extent of the damage. Separate the damaged from the undamaged property and put it in the best possible order for the adjuster's examination. If possible, protect the property from further damage.

-- Wait for the adjuster to arrive. Do not call anyone to repair or replace your loss without first getting instructions from your adjuster. Your insurer's visual inspection of your loss may be necessary before repairs are undertaken. Do not throw away damaged property until your company's adjuster advises you it is all right to do so. If your home is damaged, make only temporary repairs until a claims adjuster looks at the damage. Making permanent repairs before the adjuster's inspection could trigger a denial of your claim.

-- Be careful when choosing a contractor to make repairs. Before signing a contract, check references to make sure you are working with a reputable firm. Consult the Better Business Bureau. Consumers need to be prepared so they are not taken advantage of by unscrupulous businesses or people. Consumers should examine their options, get more than one estimate, ask for and check references, and, most importantly, get everything in writing."

If your claim is denied, review the terms of your policy for what is or is not covered. You may also file an appeal to your insurance company's claim manager. If questions remain, feel free to contact the Insurance Department.
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Source: Pennsylvania Insurance Department

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