The aftermath of a hurricane is something we all hope we never have to experience. However, if your home is damaged by a storm, knowing what to do in case you need to file an insurance claim can help ease some of the uncertainty you may be feeling as you begin to recover.

We understand the challenges you may be facing – which is why we’ve compiled our top hurricane insurance claims tips to help make the process of filing a claim a little smoother.

Tip #1: Document the Losses for Your Claim

During the claims process, you will document all of the damages to your property—and the more details you can provide, the better your agent will be able to assist you. It will be important to list each damaged item, its estimated value, approximate date of purchase, and the type of damage sustained.

For the best results, take well-lit photos of property damage from as many angles as you can. Visual evidence can go a long way toward completing your claim and getting an accurate reimbursement.

Tip #2: Contact Your Insurance Company

Safety should be your #1 priority when once you’re able to return home after a storm. Even if you’re handy around the house, things like fallen branches, exposed wires, and wet surfaces can make many repair jobs more hazardous than they look.

Instead of rolling up your sleeves immediately, it’s best to contact your insurance company as soon as possible if you notice any damage to your property after the storm has passed.  You typically have 180 days to file a hurricane insurance claim in Louisiana. Your insurance company will work with you to come up with a repair plan that complies with your insurance policy and safely gets your home back to working order. They can also get the ball rolling on reimbursing you for any losses like electronics, furniture, appliances, or other property damaged by the storm that needs to be replaced.

Also, make sure that you know your insurance carrier and the 1-800 number to call for filing a claim. Claims are processed faster and easier if there is a direct line of communication with your insurance company.

Tip #3: Know How Your Policy Handles Repairs

Before starting any repairs, talk with your insurer. The repairs you make to your home right after a hurricane could affect the outcome of your insurance claim. You might be able to make temporary fixes, like putting a tarp over the roof, but we recommend always checking with your insurer first to confirm it won’t affect your claim. They can help you determine what damages you can patch up now, what major repairs should wait until further along in the claims process, and what benefits your policy may provide—like temporary relocation coverage—that can help make the recovery process easier for you and your family.

Tip #4: Keep Track of Receipts and Expenses

Hang on to all your receipts, including hotel receipts, and work with your insurer to determine if any of your expenses can be added to your claim.

By staying in touch with your insurer and remembering these tips, you’ll be well on your way to recouping from any damage you may have sustained from the hurricane—and weathering any more that may come your way in the future.