Tornado Damage and Cleaning Up

Super Tuesday brought some not-so-super weather to a large part of Tornado Alley. Businesses affected will need to begin the clean up process today. Typically, commercial property insurance, commercial auto, and business interruption policies will cover damage or disruption from a tornado.

Here are some tips on dealing with your insurer after such a storm:

• Take Photos: A picture is worth a thousand words. Document the damage immediately with photos.
• Contact Your Agent: You need to make your claim as soon as possible after the storm. Contact your agent and get the forms and documents you need. Find out all relevant deadlines: When can you apply for emergency cash? What is the waiting period for business disruption coverage to begin?
• Make Emergency Repairs: You do not need to wait for an adjuster to arrive before making emergency repairs to preserve the structure. However, hold off on cosmetic and non-emergency repairs.
• Have Realistic Expectations: Claims from major storm disasters often overwhelm local agents. Claims are prioritized by immediate need. Be realistic in your expectations in dealing with your insurer.
• Document Everything: Keep receipts and create an inventory of all of the damage and update it as necessary. Don't try and guess what is an important receipt - get receipts for everything.

Planning ahead for disasters is a key to proper risk management. The Federal Emergency Management Agency offers businesses guides to creating disaster response and planning programs.