Immediate Aftermath

1. Safety First: Ensure your safety and that of your family. Avoid hazards like downed power lines or structural damage to your home.

2. Document the Damage: As soon as it's safe, document the damage caused by the windstorm. Take photos or videos of all affected areas and items. This documentation is essential for your insurance claim.

3. Temporary Repairs: Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage, such as covering broken windows or damaged roofs with tarps. Keep all receipts related to these repairs, as they may be reimbursable under your policy.

Review Insurance Coverage

4. Understand Your Policy: Review your windstorm insurance policy to understand your coverage limits, deductibles, and any specific requirements for filing a claim. Knowing what is covered will help you communicate more effectively with your insurance company.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage. Prompt notification is often required and can expedite the claims process.

Filing the Claim

6. Provide Detailed Information: When reporting the damage, provide as much detail as possible. Be prepared to describe the extent of the damage, the condition of your home, and any temporary repairs you've made.

7. Claim Documentation: Along with your initial report, submit the photos or videos of the damage. Your insurance company may also require a detailed inventory of damaged or lost items.

Assessment and Adjustment

8. Adjuster’s Visit: An insurance adjuster will be assigned to inspect the damage. It's beneficial to be present during this inspection to ensure all damage is accounted for. The adjuster will assess the damage and estimate repair costs.

9. Estimates for Repairs: You may be asked to obtain repair estimates from licensed contractors. These estimates should be detailed, listing the necessary repairs and their costs.

Claim Processing

10. Claim Review: The insurance company will review the adjuster’s report, your repair estimates, and your policy to determine coverage. This process may involve negotiations, especially if there are discrepancies between the adjuster's estimate and your contractors' estimates.

11. Settlement Offer: Once the review is complete, the insurance company will issue a settlement offer. This offer should cover the cost of repairs or replacement of damaged items, minus your deductible.

Resolution

12. Dispute and Negotiation: If you disagree with the settlement offer, you can dispute it. This might involve submitting additional documentation, negotiating with the insurance company, or hiring a public adjuster for a second opinion.

13. Repairs and Recovery: After agreeing on a settlement, you can proceed with the necessary repairs or replacements. It's important to use reputable contractors and to keep detailed records and receipts.