RELEASE DATE: November 11, 2002

For information: Mary Bonelli/Mitch Wilson, OII, 614-228-1593
After hours: Mary – 614-443-0400; Mitch – 614-868-0575

INSURANCE TIPS TO ASSIST IN FILING STORM LOSSES

COLUMBUS–Severe storms and tornadoes ravaged parts of northern Ohio on November 10. To assist Ohioans with claims, the Ohio Insurance Institute (OII) provides the following tips, along with a list of insurance company toll-free phone numbers and Web sites to assist with claims filing. If you experienced losses, OII recommends you contact your insurance agent or company representative as soon as possible.

HOMEOWNERS/RENTERS INSURANCE COVERAGE

Renters and homeowners are protected by the insurance policy’s “windstorm” peril coverage from high wind, hail and tornado losses. Renters have coverage for their belongings damaged by this peril, while home owners normally have protection for both the structure (home and detached garages or sheds) and its contents. Coverage amounts have been selected by the policyholder and are limited to those specified on the declarations page of the policy. And remember all policies carry a deductible – an amount the policyholder agrees to pay for a loss.

• Debris removal coverage
  Typical costs associated with removing fallen trees is covered up to a $500 max under the following circumstances:
  - Tree(s) were uprooted due to windstorm AND
  - Downed tree(s) damaged a covered structure on your property, like the home’s roof, garage or shed.
  NOTE: Check with your agent or insurance company representative as some companies have broadened debris removal coverage to:
  - Increase removal limits to $1,000 (limit of $500/tree)
  - Include fallen tree(s) that don’t damage a covered structure but do block driveways or handicap access ways.
• Tree/shrub damage
  Damage to the residence’s trees, shrubs, plants and lawn are NOT COVERED from damage caused by wind or hail. Coverage is provided for damage from fire, lightning, explosion, vandalism, and other selected perils. Normally, the coverage limit is 5% of the dwelling amount, but limited to $500 for any one tree, shrub or plant.
• Lightning strikes
  If lightning strikes a tree and it falls on your home or property, debris removal coverage applies.
• Temporary repairs
  Costs incurred from taking measures to protect against further damage (plastic/wood over damaged roofs and windows) are normally reimbursable under the homeowners policy. Be sure to save these receipts.

AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE COVERAGE

Vehicles listed on your auto policy are protected by the “other than collision” (comprehensive) coverage if damaged by wind or tornadoes. If your vehicle is damaged by a fallen tree, this “other than collision” coverage for that vehicle applies – regardless of tree ownership. Remember that your deductible applies. The OII recommends that when severe weather threatens, try to get your car under cover – like in a garage or carport – to prevent damage from high winds, flying debris and hail.

INSURANCE CLAIMS TIPS

• Contact your insurance agent or company representative as soon as possible.
• Closely inspect property and cars for damage.
• Photograph any damage and inventory losses, especially if heavy, widespread damage has occurred. These will assist with claims handling.
• Secure property from further damage or theft and save any related receipts, since many insurers will reimburse you for these expenses.
• If required to seek temporary housing due to a covered loss such as a tornado, check your policy for “additional living expense” coverage. Many policies cover such expenses up to a stated amount. Save your receipts.
• Beware of rip offs. Carefully check the background of contractors and others who promise “cheap” repairs.

There will always be those who try to profit from the losses of others.
The OII is a public information and trade association representing insurance companies and agent groups for the property/casualty insurance industry. A primary objective of the OII is to help Ohioans achieve a better understanding of insurance and related safety issues. OII’s Tornado Safety Tips brochure can be downloaded from our Web site at www.ohioinsurance.org, or contact OII for a free copy at P.O. Box 816, Columbus, OH 43216, 614-228-1593.
For additional information about filing claims and home repair tips, contact the OII at 614-228-1593.