Aftermath of a Storm: Key Steps to Take

Facing the aftermath of a storm can be a daunting experience. But when it comes to safeguarding your property and filing an insurance claim, it’s essential to have a clear plan of action. Below is a guide to assist you through the initial steps following a date of loss.

1. Survey Exterior Damage

After ensuring your safety, the first step is to assess the storm damage to your property.

Exterior Inspection: Begin by examining the exterior of your property for visible damage. Look for missing shingles or broken gutters. As well as obvious roof leaks or scattered roofing materials.

Air Conditioning Unit: Even if it’s not the summer season, check your AC unit for damages. You wouldn’t want any surprises when it’s time to use it.

Other Damages: Be thorough in identifying all storm-related damages, including those caused by trees, neighbor’s trees, or missing fencing. 

 

2. Survey Interior Damage

Inspect the inside of your property for signs of internal damage. 

Water Leaks:  Keep an eye out for water leaks or puddles on walls and floors, especially on the ground floor. 

Windows and Attic: Check windows for leaks and inspect your attic for any issues. 

 

3. Take Photos

Capture clear photos to document all damage you see on your property in the aftermath of a storm.

Exterior Damage: From damaged roofs to broken AC units, photos play a significant role in your insurance claim.

Interior Damage: Document any damage inside your home, ensuring clarity in the images.

 

4. Keep Everything

Hold onto damaged items, as your insurance assessor may need to inspect them for your claim. Even if you can’t keep large items, like a waterlogged carpet or a broken TV, take photos and keep small samples if possible. A piece of your wet carpet can serve as evidence!

 

5. Shield Your Property

To prevent further damage to your property while waiting for repairs, we recommend covering visible holes or broken windows. You can do this by using tarps or canvases. Furthermore, ensure that you move valuable belongings and electronic equipment out of harm’s way.

 

6. Public Adjuster Inspection

Enlist the expertise of a public adjuster to ensure that all damage to your property is accounted for prior to filing a claim. Their in-depth knowledge, negotiation skills, and commitment to your best interests can significantly impact the outcome of your insurance claim. Ultimately, providing you with the peace of mind you deserve after a date of loss occurs. 

Navigating the aftermath of a storm and filing an insurance claim can be challenging, but with the right steps and the support of Premier Claims, you can restore your property with peace of mind. Remember, our dedicated team is here to assist you throughout the process.

 

Thorough Investigation Turns $1.9M into a $5.9M Claim Settlement

Sanoh America Distribution Facility

Archbold, Ohio
Hail & Wind Damage | May 2022


The expansive 223,000 square-foot distribution facility experienced significant hail and wind damage, resulting in a small portion collapse. The insurance carrier enlisted an engineer to refute the more extensive hail damage, dismissing it as merely cosmetic and initially only approved repairs for the collapsed section. At this time, our team was brought on and we began to gather evidence from comprehensive on-site investigations, demonstrating the long-term repercussions of neglecting the full extent of the damage. Within six months, these efforts resulted in a reversal of decision to a full roof replacement. In addition, we were able to show historical storm activity that had impacted the building within the policy terms for more accurate dates of loss, as well as reimbursement for business interruption and loss of contents. Thanks to our diligent efforts, we successfully secured an additional $3.9 million in claim settlements.


Insurance Carrier Offer: $1,985,000

Premier Claims Settlement: $5,893,000

Self-Storage Claim Initially Denied: Premier Claims $1.25M Settlement for Full Replacement

Dino’s Storage

Des Moines, Iowa
Hail Damage
March 2022


After the insurance company denied the initial claim, they were reluctant to conduct an on-site joint inspection, basing their decision on an incomplete assessment by an independent adjuster. Recognizing the oversight, we presented compelling evidence and our own detailed estimate to the insurance carrier. This led to an on-site joint inspection and a complete turnaround. We successfully negotiated full replacements for roofs and doors across all structures, and even secured private security to safeguard patrons’ belongings during the construction phase.


Insurance Carrier Offer: Complete Denial

Premier Claims Settlement: $1,247,000

 

Meticulous Documentation Leads to a 683% Increase in the Settlement

Elite Transportation Warehouse

Emporia, Kansas
Hail & Water Damage
November 2021


Despite presenting evidence from forensic damage experts that proved water intrusion had caused phenolic insulation to become acidic and cause damage to the steel decking, the insurance carrier remained steadfast with their $139,000 estimate. They also denied coverage for business losses, even though the policy clearly included it. Undeterred, we connected the policyholder with a legal team, sharing all our findings to build a solid case. The outcome? A victory that resulted in a 683% increase in the settlement offer from the insurance carrier.


Insurance Carrier Offer: $139,000

Premier Claims Settlement: $1,088,000

 

 

Spot Repairs Initially Approved for Historic Building: Restored with $1.3M Settlement

Rivermont Collegiate

Bettendorf, Iowa
Hail & Water Damage
May 2021


Nearly a year after a devastating hail storm, the building began to show alarming signs of water damage through the roof. Although still within the timeframe to file a claim, the insurance carrier was resistant, approving only minimal spot repairs that fell below the deductible amount. To counter this, we enlisted experts from the tile company to provide irrefutable forensic evidence, confirming that the damage occurred within the claim window. Moreover, our team successfully negotiated for a complete roof replacement, ensuring the historic building was restored while preserving its invaluable significance.


Insurance Carrier Offer: Only Spot Repairs

Premier Claims Settlement: $1,264,000

 

 

Insurance Carrier Denial Turned into a $1.16M Final Settlement

Confidential Religious Center

Orlando, Florida
Hail Damage
April 2021


From the start, our team uncovered undeniable evidence of hail damage to the 1,020-square metal roof. In an attempt to stall the process, the insurance carrier issued a ‘reservation of rights’ letter, suggesting the claim might not be sufficiently covered by the policy. They also sent an engineer and their own adjuster for further evaluation. To counter this delay tactic, we conducted a thorough legal review of the policy to confirm coverage and compiled a comprehensive estimate based on our investigations. Despite an ACV policy with endorsements, we successfully negotiated a final settlement of $1,162,000 for a complete roof replacement. After the settlement, and considering the property’s age, we advised the policyholder on upgrading to an RCV policy for more comprehensive future coverage.


Insurance Carrier Offer: Stated No Coverage Available

Premier Claims Settlement: $1,162,000

 

 

Apartment Claim Initially Denied: Premier Claims Settles at $2.23M

Tudor Heights Apartments

Omaha, Nebraska
Hail Damage
April 2019


After the insurance carrier initially denied the policyholder’s claim, our team was called in for an expert second opinion. Following a thorough inspection, it became clear that not only was the damage significant but it was also covered under their policy. As a result, the 420-unit apartment complex received comprehensive upgrades, including full roof replacements, new siding, and updated HVAC units, along with additional coverage for outdoor content for the residents.


Insurance Carrier Offer: Claim Denied

Premier Claims Settlement: $2,227,000