The Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) has issued guidance to policyholders in response to the widespread property damage caused by severe weather across the state, including tornadoes in Slidell and Lake Charles. Commissioner Tim Temple has reached out to elected officials in the affected areas to offer assistance from the LDI.
Commissioner Temple expressed sympathy for those affected by the storms, stating, “My prayers are with our friends and neighbors who are dealing with significant property damage following today’s storms.” He emphasized the importance of policyholders promptly assessing the damage and contacting their insurer to file a claim.
In order to assist policyholders navigating the claims process, the LDI provided the following guidance:
- Contact Your Insurance Company First: Policyholders are urged to contact their insurance company or agent as soon as possible to file a claim. It’s recommended to have the policy number and an initial assessment of the damage ready. Ensuring that the insurer has correct contact information is essential for effective communication.
- Document the Damage: Before initiating any cleanup efforts, policyholders should take pictures or videos of the damage. This visual documentation is crucial for accurately assessing the extent of the damage and facilitating the claims process. Additionally, damaged personal property items should be separated from undamaged items to aid in the claims adjuster’s inventory.
- Make Temporary Repairs: Policyholders are responsible for mitigating further damage by making necessary temporary repairs, such as securing the property with tarps or boarding up broken windows. It’s important to retain receipts for expenses incurred during these temporary measures.
- Verify Adjuster’s Identification: When an adjuster visits the property, policyholders should ask for identification. They can verify the adjuster’s licensure by contacting the LDI or visiting the department’s website.
The Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) works to enhance competition in the state’s insurance market while providing individuals and businesses with the necessary information and resources to make informed insurance decisions. As a regulator, the LDI ensures compliance with laws to protect policyholders and maintain a fair marketplace.
Policyholders can reach out to the LDI for assistance by calling 1-800-259-5300 or visiting www.ldi.la.gov.
Contact:
Louisiana Department of Insurance
Phone: 1-800-259-5300
Website: www.ldi.la.gov