For Immediate Release


From: Rocky Mountain Insurance Association

Media Contact:

Carole Walker
Executive Director, RMIA
Office: (303) 790-0216
Mobile: (303) 601-8437
Carole@rmiia.org

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Insurance Advice for Colorado Residents Evacuated Near Evergreen
 
July 14, 2020  - With more than 1,000 Jefferson County homeowners under mandatory evacuation and hundreds of homes in the path of the Elephant Butte Fire burning out-of-control near Evergreen, the Rocky Mountain Insurance Association has insurance and evacuation advice.
 
"As we find ourselves in the midst of a dangerous and unpredictable wildfire season, it is critical everyone understands the role their insurance plays in evacuations," says Carole Walker, Executive Director of the Rocky Mountain Insurance Association. "Always put safety first, but COVID-19 health precautions can add another layer of concern about where to go and what to do when homeowners are evacuated due to a wildfire."
 
Insurance Evacuation & Claims Advice
 
If you are under a mandatory evacuation order here's what you need to know to about putting safety first, maintaining COVID-19 health precautions, and what to expect from your insurance coverage and claims filing process. 
  • New COVID-19 challenges may impact evacuation shelters, lodging availability and claims handling. First and foremost, if you are ordered to evacuate, you need to leave your residence immediately. Listen to orders from local authorities.
  • Contact your insurance agent or company immediately to let them know where you are staying and help you with coverage or claims questions. They can also help assist you with lodging options. 
Evacuation Insurance Coverage:
  • Homeowners or renters who are under a mandatory evacuation order likely have insurance coverage for "additional living expenses" which provides them with a certain amount of out-of-pocket money under their insurance policy while they are forced out of their homes. Policies can vary so check with your insurance professional about what coverage you have and keep receipts for expenses that may be reimbursed if you file a damage claim. 
  • Most insurance policies cover additional living expenses if you are under a mandatory evacuation and are unable to live in your house or apartment because of a fire or other covered peril. Most policies will reimburse you the difference between your additional living expenses and your normal living expenses, but policies have set limits on the amount they will pay and may be subject to a deductible. 
What to know before you go:
  • If you are on pre-evacuation alert it is critical to have an evacuation plan that includes identifying available lodging options, i.e. family/friends; local hotels; shelter locations; insurance assistance with lodging; pet shelters. 
  • Take photos or video of personal possession-particularly antiques, artwork or custom/expensive items. Do this only if you have plenty of time--put safety FIRST! 
  • Make a home inventory that includes list, pictures or a videotape of the contents of your home or apartment.  It's easy to get overwhelmed, but most insurance companies now have apps to help simplify the process.  You can add digital photos and scan in receipts, along with your room-by room online inventory. 
    • Use apps or your computer to make your inventory list. Personal finance software packages often include a homeowners' room-by-room inventory program. Check with your insurance company about what technology they provide.
    • The National Association of Insurance Commissioners inventory checklist and My Home App. 
Insurance Claims Filing Advice:
  • Insurance companies have implemented safety procedures that address COVID-19 concerns to provide virtual property and inspection opportunities whenever possible in the claim settlement process. If an on-site inspection is required, adjusters are trained in proper safety precautions, including wearing masks, social distancing, and following CDC guidelines. 
  • Residents returning home to damage from smoke or other fire-related property losses should contact their insurance company immediately.  
Insurance Resources & Claims Assistance:
 
How to file a property claim:    Homeowners insurance covers damage from hail, fire and wind. Property damage resulting from rising water is covered by a separate flood insurance policy.   http://www.rmiia.org/homeowners/Walking_Through_Your_Policy/Settlement_Process.asp
    
How to file an auto claim:   Hail, wind, fire or flood damage to vehicles is covered if you carry comprehensive insurance on your auto policy.  http://www.rmiia.org/auto/steering_through_your_auto_policy/Filing_an_Auto_Claim.asp  
 
In case of possible evacuation - only if you have enough warning - consider packing the following items:
  • Social Security cards
  • Driver's licenses
  • Credit cards
  • House deed
  • Vehicle titles
  • Marriage license
  • Birth Certificates
  • Insurance policies
  •  Home inventory list / photos 
  • Health insurance cards
  • Prescription medications
  • Important personal computer information downloaded to disk
  • Valuable jewelry
  • Photographs
  • Home videos
  • Items with sentimental value, such as wedding dress or baby keepsakes
  • One week's worth of clothing
  • Pets with ID tags, carriers, and pet food
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About RMIA
Rocky Mountain Insurance  Association is a non-profit consumer information organization that represents property & casualty insurers in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming. RMIA has been serving consumers and the media since 1952.
Rocky Mountain Insurance Association | (303) 790-0216
rmiia@rmiia.org | www.rmiia.org
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