How to file a claim following a disaster
Updated May 30, 2023, at 3:08 p.m. CT
If your home or property is damaged in severe weather, you might need to file a homeowners insurance claim. Here’s what you can expect with the property damage insurance claims process:
What does standard homeowners insurance cover?
First, it can be helpful to understand what a standard homeowners insurance policy will cover. The coverage will typically protect you from these causes of loss (perils):
But know that some natural disasters, like floods, require a separate policy to file an insurance claim.
Starting your claim
If you have insurance with Dupaco Insurance Services, you have a few options to file your claim:
- Contact Dupaco Insurance Services at 800-373-7600, ext. 210, or at insurance@dupaco.com.
- File a claim online with your insurance company.
- Call your insurance company directly.
- Email your carrier directly if you use West Bend (directconnect@wbmi.com) or Pekin (callcenter@pekininsurance.com).
- Use your insurance company’s smartphone app if you use Progressive.
What to tell your insurance agent
When you contact your insurance agent, you’ll need to provide your:
Document the damage
Take photos of all damage to your property to help with the claims process.
Mitigate further damage
When safe to do so, work to prevent further damage to your property.
For example, if your roof has a hole in it, you can nail a tarp over it to prevent additional water from entering your home. Your insurance policy will reimburse you for those expenses.
Be safe
Don’t attempt to take measures to prevent further damage to your home if it’s unsafe to do so. Your safety is your No. 1 priority.
“We don’t want anyone injured trying to mitigate further damage,” said Tim Bemis, insurance services regional manager at Dupaco Insurance Services.
Be patient
When storm damage is widespread, many insurance companies experience high call volumes. When there’s widespread damage, know that the claims process will take extra time.
