How to file a claim following a disaster

The Aug. 10 storm left behind a trail of destruction across much of the Midwest. If your home or property was damaged, here’s what you need to know to file a claim.

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How to file a claim

Starting your claim

Given the widespread power and phone outages, know that 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 carrier.
• Call your carrier directly.
• Email your carrier directly if you use West Bend (directconnect@wbmi.com) or Pekin (callcenter@pekininsurance.com).
• Use your carrier’s smartphone app if you use Progressive.

What to provide

Provide your name (spell out your name when leaving a voicemail), contact information, insurance carrier, policy number (if available) and a summary of the damage.

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.

What might that look like? 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 patient

Damage is widespread, with many carriers experiencing unprecedented call volumes.

“Our hearts go out to all of you, and we’re going to do whatever we can to help each one of you,” said Tim Bemis, Dupaco Insurance Services manager. “But because of the widespread damage, it will take extra time.”

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,” Bemis said.