Residents urged to file insurance claims immediately following winter storm

JACKSON, Miss. — As Mississippi begins to thaw following the devastating impact of this latest winter storm, Mississippi Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney is urging residents to prioritize filing insurance claims to expedite recovery efforts.

Standard homeowners and business insurance policies typically cover damage caused by severe winter weather, including pipe bursts and roof damage. However, state officials warn that delaying the process could lead to complications.

“Having the right information following a disaster makes filing a claim easier and faster,” said Commissioner Chaney. “Find your policy information, store it in a safe, waterproof place, and make a digital copy. If you didn’t have a home inventory before the storms, make one now.”

To assist with documentation, the Mississippi Insurance Department (MID) recommends using tools like the NAIC Home Inventory App to create a digital record of belongings.

How to Navigate the Claims Process

The MID has released a set of essential guidelines for policyholders dealing with the aftermath of the storm:

• Act Quickly: File your claim as soon as possible. Many policies have specific timeframes for notification.
• Document Everything: Take photographs or video of all damage before moving items. Create a detailed inventory of lost or damaged property for the adjuster.
• Mitigate Further Damage: Make temporary repairs—such as covering broken windows or leaking roofs—to prevent additional loss. Save all receipts for materials used.
• Wait on Permanent Fixes: Do not begin permanent repairs until an insurance adjuster has inspected the property and a settlement cost has been agreed upon.
• Track Living Expenses: If your home is uninhabitable, check your policy for “Additional Living Expenses” (ALE) coverage to help pay for temporary housing and meals.
• Maintain Records: Keep a detailed log of all conversations with insurance agents, adjusters, and contractors.

Important Note: Maintain all damaged personal property for the adjuster to inspect. Do not throw items away until they have been documented by the insurance company.

Assistance and Support

The recovery process for extensive claims can be lengthy. Residents are advised to remain patient and cooperate fully with assigned adjusters.

For those requiring assistance or experiencing difficulties with their claims, the MID Consumer Services Division is available at 1-800-562-2957 or via email at consumer@mid.ms.gov.