Insurance bureau can help with storm damages

AUGUSTA — In the aftermath of recent storms, Maine Insurance Superintendent Eric Cioppa reminds Maine residents with weather-related property damage that the Bureau of Insurance is a resource for those with questions about homeowners, renters, auto or commercial property policies. Cioppa also reminded those impacted of the following best practices when experiencing storm damage:

• Move quickly to contact the insurance company;

• Take notes on the people, ask questions and, if possible, photograph the damaged property;

• Expedite access to damaged areas;

• Wait for the adjuster to arrive. Making permanent repairs before the adjuster’s inspection could trigger a denial of a claim.

The bureau recommends a number of proactive steps to prepare for future events:

Plan now for a possible future claim. Inventory personal property and store the information virtually or in another physical location. Review policies to be sure of adequate coverage.

FMI: 207-624-8475, 1-800-300-5000, 1-800-638-6620, www.maine.gov/insurancewww.floodsmart.gov.

A portion of Middle Street and Fairview Avenue in Farmington are closed Friday, Nov. 10, after strong winds downed a pine tree and it broke the tops of two utility poles and knocked power lines down, Farmington Fire Rescue Capt. Tim “TD” Hardy said. (Donna M. Perry/Sun Journal file photo)