Step 1: Report Damage Fast
Call your insurer or agent as soon as it is safe. Most policies demand quick notice, so do not wait. Have your policy number handy. Get your claim number. Write down each name, date, and time.
Step 2: Take Photos Before Cleanup
Shoot photos and video of everything before you move or toss anything. Our photo checklist shows exactly what to catch. Good photos are the top factor in a fair payout.
Step 3: Stop More Damage
Your policy likely makes you guard the home from worse harm. That means tarping a hurt roof or boarding smashed windows (see board-up guide). Keep each receipt for temp fixes. These costs are often paid back. Do not start final repairs until the adjuster has seen the harm.
Step 4: Know Your Deductibles
Many Louisiana policies have a special hurricane or named-storm deductible. It is often a share of your insured home value, not a flat sum. Check your declarations page so you know your out-of-pocket cost up front. Flood harm is not in a standard home policy in most cases. It needs a separate flood policy. Flood claims go to your flood insurer.
Step 5: Meet the Adjuster Ready
Be there when the adjuster walks through. Show each hurt area. Share your photos and lists. Point out spots they may miss, like the attic or crawl space. Get all key facts in writing. You can ask for a copy of the adjuster report.
Step 6: Know Louisiana Deadlines
State law sets firm time frames for insurers (source: Louisiana Department of Insurance):
- Insurers must start work on your claim within 14 days (30 days for a huge loss).
- For a named storm, home claims must be paid within 60 days of good proof of loss.
- Under La. R.S. 22:1892, an insurer that will not pay within 30 days of good proof of loss can owe a fine of up to 50% plus lawyer fees.
Step 7: If Your Claim Stalls, Push Back
Put all key facts in writing. Email beats phone calls for a paper trail. If your insurer goes quiet or lowballs you, file a gripe with the Louisiana Department of Insurance at ldi.la.gov or 1-800-259-5300. For big fights, a Louisiana lawyer who takes first-party claim cases can advise you.
Keep Each Receipt
Save receipts for temp housing, meals if you had to leave, tarps, pumps, and debris hauling. Some of these fall under added living costs in your policy. One folder for storm receipts will pay off.