Insurance Tips Offered Ahead of Expected Flooding

Following several weeks of heavy snow with little thawing thanks to bitter cold temperatures, Lieutenant Governor and Insurance Director Mary Taylor is offering information and tips for Ohioans as warmer temperatures and rain increase the risk for flooding across Ohio.

“After several snowstorms and little to no thawing because of the bitter cold, this week’s warmer temperatures bring an increased risk for flooding,” Taylor said. “If your property is impacted by flooding, first make sure you and your family are safe before assessing the damage.  Those who have experienced a loss to their property or possessions should contact their insurance company or agent.”

Damage caused by rain, hail, lightning and tornadoes are generally covered by a standard homeowner’s, renter’s and business insurance policies, and an auto insurance policy’s “comprehensive” or “other than collision” coverage. Flood insurance is not included in typical homeowner’s, renter’s and business insurance policies.

Flood insurance is made available by the federal National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) at www.floodsmart.gov and is purchased through an insurance agent. People should regularly review their need for flood insurance because there is a 30-day waiting period for coverage to start.

If you suffered storm damage, you should:

• Call your insurance agent or company as soon as you can. Be sure your agent knows how to contact you, especially if you have to move out of your home.
• Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage if permitted by public safety authorities and if you will not endanger yourself.
• Closely inspect property and cars for damage. Note and photograph any damage.
• If required to seek temporary housing, check your policy for “loss of use” coverage.
• Be sure everything is considered in your claim. Back up claims with written estimates.

Taylor offers these tips to avoid becoming a victim of contractor fraud:

• Obtain a list of reputable contractors from your insurance carrier, the Better Business Bureau or a specialized consumer organization.
• Contact multiple contractors and obtain more than one estimate.
• Do not allow a contractor to inspect your property when you are not home.
• If you give a contractor permission to inspect your property, personally watch them conduct the inspection.
• Obtain, in writing, the terms and conditions of the project.
• Avoid signing a contract until the document is reviewed fully and/or discuss the terms of the contract with a legal representative or a trusted adviser.
• Pay the contractor by check or credit card, rather than in cash, and do not pay in full until all work has been finished.

Ohioans with insurance questions can call the Department’s consumer hotline at 1-800-686-1526 and visit www.insurance.ohio.gov for information. Those who have been victimized by contractor fraud should contact the Department’s fraud hotline at 1-800-686-1527. You can follow the Department on twitter @OHInsurance and on Facebook.