In the aftermath of recent severe storms and tornadoes that have devastated multiple US states, the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA) is advising affected residents to initiate the claims process promptly.
The storms, which struck over the past weekend, caused destruction across Missouri, Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Mississippi, leading to fatalities and widespread property damage. Officials have confirmed at least 42 deaths across eight states, with Missouri reporting the highest toll.
Meanwhile, fast-moving wildfires in Oklahoma and Texas have destroyed hundreds of homes, prompting insurers to assist affected policyholders in those regions as well.
Jon Ward, APCIA’s department vice president of public affairs, emphasized the industry's commitment to assisting policyholders, stating, "When disaster strikes, insurers’ overwhelming priority is to help their customers rebuild and restore their property."
Karen Collins, APCIA vice president of property and environmental, highlighted the extreme wildfire conditions in Oklahoma and Texas, saying: "Dry conditions exacerbated by extreme wind and low humidity created the perfect storm of wildfire conditions. Insurers are ready to help policyholders that have lost homes.”
The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management reported that over 130 wildfires across 44 counties have destroyed 400 homes. Collins advised policyholders to file claims as soon as possible, explaining that insurers are prepared to assist with wildfire recovery efforts, including temporary housing and rebuilding.
For residents beginning the recovery process, APCIA advised contacting their insurer as soon as it is safe to do so to file a claim. Homeowners should take necessary measures to prevent further damage or theft and document losses by creating an inventory of lost or damaged items and photographing the destruction for the insurance adjuster.
The association also warned policyholders to be cautious of contractors or third parties seeking involvement in the insurance claims and repair process and recommends consulting their insurer before signing any contracts.
Damage from severe weather events like tornadoes is typically covered under standard homeowners, renters, or business policies, APCIA said. Vehicle damage is generally covered if the auto policy includes comprehensive coverage.
If a home is uninhabitable due to storm damage or repairs, policyholders should check whether their policy includes additional living expenses, which may help cover temporary housing, meals, and other necessities. Keeping receipts for these expenses is essential for discussing reimbursement with an insurance adjuster.
After filing a claim, policyholders should take steps to prevent further damage but avoid making permanent repairs before an adjuster assesses the property. Photographing perishable items and retaining receipts for emergency repairs and additional living costs can help substantiate claims.
The recent storms caused extensive damage, including an EF-2 tornado in Missouri that severely impacted Villa Ridge, where 13 individuals were rescued from a Burger King after seeking shelter in the restaurant’s bathroom.
Meteorologists warn that additional severe weather could develop in the coming days, and residents are urged to remain informed and take necessary precautions.
