Hurricane Laura is estimated to be an $8-9 Billion insured loss event, the second-highest in the state’s history only behind Katrina.  Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says with the mass amount of claims coming to insurers, policyholders need to file as soon as possible.

“The sooner you do that, the sooner you get an adjuster assigned to you, and ultimately, the sooner you will resolve your claim,” said Donelon.

Whether it is tarping a roof, removing a tree, or whatever actions that need to be done, Donelon recommends taking whatever remedial steps can be taken to minimize the loss.

“You have a duty to do that under your policy and you are entitled to be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in connection therewith,” said Donelon.

Donelon says anyone who took photos of their property before the storm should also take photos of the damage caused by the storm for comparison by an adjuster.

“Do, in particular, take pictures to document what the damage looked like if you are going to take remedial steps, such as cut down the tree that fell on your property and have it hauled away before an adjuster can get out to you,” said Donelon.

(Story written by Kevin Barnhart/Louisiana Radio Network)

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