DE - Hurricane Irene & Tropical Storm Lee
Late Aug., 2011, Hurricane Irene followed by Tropical Storm Lee produced torrential rain and caused substantial damage to the northeastern part of the United States. This page centralizes core information on the hurricane and useful links for you and your clients.
General claim-handling information
Irene: 60-day extension for filing proof of loss (Bulletin W-11120) - 11/22/11
Basement coverage under the SFIP (Bulletin W-11093) - reminds producers that the NFIP provides some coverage for basements.
Irene/Lee: 30-day extension for filing proof of loss (Bulletin W-11082) [partially superseded by Bulletin W-11120]
Hurricane Irene FICO number (Delaware: 278) & closure of FICO number
Irene & Lee: Modified handling of claims with prior losses (Bulletin W-11074)
Coverage questions
I.I.I.: What’s covered, what’s not - some basic consumer-oriented reminders which can help in discussing claims with clients. Remember however, that ultimately the claim determination rests with the insurance company and isbased on that company's specific policy language
Wind vs. flood—reminder of past bulletins - FEMA issues bulletin
Wind or water - an article by Jerry Milton
Hurricane Irene preparedness information
Checklist for clients (links embedded) -basic information to help clients understand and file property &/or flood insurance claims as well as verify if disaster assistance is available to them (per Sep. 30 declaration, only public assistance may be available to local governments and certain non-profit organizations).
What to do before and after a storm - General disaster preparedness tips from the Department of Insurance
Preparing a Home Inventory:
► Know Your Stuff Home inventory software - Read more and download this free software by III
► Smartphone apps:
- Trusted Choice® Mobile App: Compatible with iOS and Android platforms, this app allows consumers to find a local Trusted Choice® agent, create their home inventory, document an accident, ask a question and read relevant headlines - all from their smartphone or mobile device. The customized format includes the agency logo and color scheme. It's also integrated with Project CAP and IIABA online systems to provide single sign-on and easy account administration. Discounted rates with Portal-Bronze enrollment. Free to the end-user.
- myHOME Scr.APP.book app for Android | iPhone - Both apps allow users to create a home inventory, letting users quickly photograph and capture images, descriptions and serial numbers, and storing the information electronically for safekeeping. The app organizes everything by room and category, and creates a back-up file for e-mail sharing.
Other assistance for clients (whether or not they have coverage)
Recover & rebuild -Assistance information from FEMA
FEMA assistance - If a hurricane or other catastrophe is declared a federal disaster and you have customers who do not have flood or other insurance coverage to respond to their losses, they may need to apply for assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Association.
Federal Aid Programs for Delaware Disaster Recovery - Public assistance only
SBA disaster loans - low interest loans to individuals or businesses to repair or replace real estate, personal property, machinery & equipment, inventory and business assets that have been damaged or destroyed in a declared disaster.
State-specific information
Designated counties - lists the counties eligible for federal aid and the type of aid available (Public Assistance only)
President declares emergency for Delaware - Sep. 30, 2011 official declaration
Commissioner Stewart urges Delawareans to file Irene-related claims immediately - warns that delay could impede payment on claims, necessary repairs and a return to normalcy
FOR AGENTS: Trusted Choice® Disaster Relief fund
Agents affected by hurricane Irene or Tropical Storm Lee may be able to apply for assistance through the Trusted Choice® Disaster Relief fund. The fund assists those who have suffered losses due to natural or manmade disasters by making cash grants to those in the insurance industry to pay for immediate or ongoing financial needs when other funding sources (such as insurance and other grants) are not available.
Agents who were not affected by the severe weather conditions and wish to help their brethren can donate to the relief fund. The foundation is a 501(c)(3) entity and all contributions are tax deductible.
Access eligibility requirements, grant application and donation forms