Here is information about flood insurance and avoiding scams:
Flood insurance
• Go online to www.floodsmart.gov to see quotes and agent contacts.
• There is a 30-day waiting period for coverage to begin.
• If you have flood insurance and want to appeal a decision, ask for a second adjustment as the program pays for two. Ask for a structural engineer, if needed. After that, there is a 60-day window to appeal to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Tips after damage
• If you disagree with a claim with your homeowner’s insurance, first appeal to the company. Ask for a supervisor or a Consumer Services Division.
• Report a complaint to the Ohio Department of Insurance at www.insurance.ohio.gov or 800-686-1526.
• A Severe Storm Recovery Toolkit is available.
Avoid scams
• Obtain a list of reputable contractors from your insurance carrier, the Better Business Bureau or a consumer organization.
• Contact multiple contractors and obtain more than one estimate.
• Do not allow inspections or estimates when you are not at home.
• Obtain in writing the terms and conditions.
• Do not sign a contract before discussing it with a lawyer or adviser.
• Pay by check or credit card, rather than in cash.
• Do not pay in full until all work is completed.
• If you believe you are a fraud victim, call the Ohio Department of Insurance at 800-686-1527.
Betty Lin-Fisher can be reached at 330-996-3724 or blinfisher@thebeaconjournal.com. Follow her on Twitter at www.twitter.com/blinfisher and see all her stories at www.ohio.com/betty
Source The Akron Beacon Journal
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