FARMERSBURG, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — If you have storm damage, should you make a claim immediately?
WTWO spoke with Heather Konrad of the Nikki Dunford Agency of American Family Insurance Wednesday morning. Konrad encouraged policy holders to contact their insurance agent to talk through the situation before filing a claim.
Konrad recommends getting an estimate before filing a claim. She pointed out if you have a $1,000 deductible and the damage is $1,200 you may decide to retract the claim. However, it will count against you as a zero payout claim.
Konrad noted that could effect your rates for five years. If your neighbor’s tree causes your damage, then that needs to be filed with your neighbor’s insurance.
Clare Hendricks with American Family Insurance passed along the following points;
- Customers who have experienced storm damage should immediately contact their company’s care center or agent to start the claim process. American Family customers can do that in a number of ways:
- Customers can text the word STORM to 26326 (AMFAM) to be sent a link to file their claim quickly and easily from their smartphones.
- Call the claims customer care center at 1-800-MYAMFAM (1-800-692-6326). We have trained representatives available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help our customers.
- Digitally report the claim via the MyAmFam app or in their MyAccount on amfam.com. Customers can file property or auto claims in the app from anywhere at any time. The claims will be routed directly to the appropriate area for efficient claim handling. Customers will also be able to track their claim’s status in the app and see who is handling their claim, details of the claim and other important information.
- Customers should also make sure to safely protect their property immediately against further damage and theft. Use plywood, tarps or other materials to cover broken windows and damaged rooftops. Keep receipts of any materials/services that you purchase to make these repairs so your adjuster can review them and reimburse you for expenses covered by your policy.
