PROVIDING PEACE OF MIND WITH THE RIGHT INSURANCE POLICY

Louisiana, a state known for its vulnerability to hurricanes and volatile weather conditions, presents unique challenges for homeowners seeking adequate insurance coverage.

To shed light on this topic, Riverlands Insurance, a local insurance agency serving Orleans, Jefferson, St. Tammany, and Tangipahoa parishes, offers valuable insights and advice for homeowners navigating the complexities of storm-related insurance claims. In a recent interview, Donna Rollo DiCarlo of Riverlands Insurance highlighted key considerations and shared proactive steps to ensure homeowners are wellprepared for potential storm-related risks and damages.

When it comes to insurance coverage, DiCarlo recommends that homeowners review all property coverages, including homeowners insurance, flood insurance, auto insurance, motorcycle insurance, and personal articles insurance. Each policy serves a specific purpose in protecting various aspects of a homeowner’s property and belongings. By assessing individual risks, licensed agents can provide personalized guidance on the types of coverage homeowners may need.

Living in a hurricane-prone area like Louisiana significantly affects homeowners’ insurance policies. Dicarlo emphasizes the importance of understanding wind/hail, named storm, and hurricane deductibles, as well as replacement cost coverage and loss of use coverage. These provisions ensure homeowners receive fair and accurate assessments from insurance adjusters and help them manage out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a claim.

Differentiating between homeowners insurance and flood insurance is crucial for homeowners. While homeowners insurance covers certain causes of loss, flood damage is generally excluded from standard policies. Riverlands Insurance advises homeowners to secure flood insurance through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program. By having both homeowners insurance and flood insurance, homeowners can safeguard their properties against various risks associated with storm-related flooding. In the event of a storm, DiCarlo advises homeowners to prioritize safety and promptly file an insurance claim. Once they have ensured the safety of their loved ones and secured their property from further damage, homeowners should initiate the claims process without delay. She also stresses the importance of not discarding any damaged items before an adjuster has reviewed and documented them.

Navigating the claims process after storm damage can be daunting for homeowners. Riverlands Insurance simplifies this process by providing clear instructions and support, and encourages you to reach out to your insurance company for the same. Policyholders are encouraged to submit their claims through their agent or directly with the insurance company. Riverlands Insurance promptly informs policyholders of their policy information, such as the claim phone number and policy number, to assist with the filing process. Throughout the claims process, policyholders are advised to document all damage, preserve damaged items, and communicate openly with the insurance adjuster and insurance company.

To avoid common misconceptions or pitfalls regarding insurance coverage during storm season, homeowners are encouraged to thoroughly review their policies, understand their coverage and deductibles, and familiarize themselves with the claims process. By being informed and proactive, homeowners can alleviate uncertainties and ensure they have adequate coverage in place.

As Louisiana residents face the uncertainties of storm season, Riverlands Insurance remains dedicated to supporting homeowners in protecting their properties and navigating the insurance claims process. Through personalized guidance, clear communication, and a commitment to customer service, Riverlands Insurance strives to ensure homeowners receive the necessary coverage and compensation when facing storm-related damages.