Oklahoma Insurance Department Shares Guidance After Fires, High Winds Impact State

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is ready to assist Oklahomans affected by the fires and high winds that impacted the state on March 14.

“Our hearts go out to the families affected, and we commend the brave first responders who worked to contain the fires,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready. “The Oklahoma Insurance Department is here to support you in your recovery. If you have questions about your insurance or need assistance with claims, please contact our Consumer Assistance Division.”

Anyone impacted by fire or wind damage can contact OID’s Consumer Assistance division at 800-522-0071 or by visiting oid.ok.gov. Commissioner Mulready also reminds Oklahomans to report damage at damage.ok.gov.

For those who’ve experienced significant loss:

• Contact your insurance agent or company as soon as possible. Ask about your ALE (additional living expense) coverage. Your insurer should be able to quickly get you a check to help you get temporary living quarters and other necessities (clothes, food, etc.) in this early stage.

• Ask your insurer what information is needed to process your claim. Provide that information, including your contact information, if you cannot live in your home.
• Once safe to do so, take photos to document the damage. Your insurance company has a right to inspect the property, so clean-up will have to wait.
• Keep track of your expenses and save all your receipts because your insurance company may reimburse you.

For those who’ve experienced minor damage:

• If the damage is minimal, get repair estimates BEFORE filing a claim. Compare this figure with your deductible level. If it’s lower than or slightly higher, consider not filing a claim so it won’t appear on your insurance record.
• When safe to do so, make the necessary repairs to prevent further damage. Do not have permanent repairs made until your insurance company has inspected the property and you have reached an agreement with them on the cost of appropriate repairs. Move undamaged items to a safe location when necessary to avoid theft or additional loss.
• Take numerous photos or videos of the damage, and don’t throw anything away.

Remember these tips when you’re dealing with contractors to avoid fraud:

• Always get more than one bid.
• Check references and phone numbers. Contractor complaint information is collected by the Better Business Bureau. You can contact the Construction Industries Board to make sure the contractor has a valid license to do business in the state and that they carry liability insurance.
• Don’t pay upfront or make your final payment until the job is finished.
• Avoid contractors who offer to waive your deductible or promise a rebate (It’s against the law!).
• Never sign a contract with blank spaces; always keep a copy for your records.

If you suspect contractor fraud, contact the Office of the Oklahoma Attorney General Consumer Protection Unit at 833-681-1895.

You can find more information about preparing for storms and reviewing your insurance coverage at oid.ok.gov/GetReady.

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