If there’s damage to your home

If there’s damage to your home

• Avoid making payments beyond emergency first aid. In some cases you may need to make temporary repairs to mitigate (or prevent) further damages. If you do make any temporary repairs, keep record of any fees to repair or replace damaged items.
• Work to make any temporary home repairs to prevent more damage to your home or property. Keep all of your receipts and any damaged items or parts. If possible, remove and protect all personal property from the affected areas.
• If a fire has damaged your home, you may need to call a contractor to secure the home and disconnect utilities. Remember to save any items damaged by the fire.
• If you have water damage, it’s a good idea to stop the flow of water by turning off your home’s main water supply. A plumber may also be able to help if you have any questions. Safety first. Never attempt potentially dangerous repairs. Be aware of submerged electrical outlets, appliances or chemicals that may be inside standing water.
• If wind, hail or another act of nature causes damage to your home, make temporary repairs to protect your property from more damage.
• If your home has been burglarized or vandalized, notify the police and take steps to secure your home. Then, take a careful inventory of your damaged or stolen property. Be sure to notify banks and credit card companies about any missing debit or credit cards.
• If you have a power outage, unplug computers and other electronics to avoid possible electrical damage from power surges.
• Report your homeowner claim once you’ve safely secured your home from more damage.