The Road to Hurricane Recovery:
There are two important steps to take immediately following hurricane loss. The first is to assess the structural integrity of your home before you enter the premises. Do a full inspection of the structure to check for major damage before entering your home in order to avoid being trapped by a collapse. Make sure to not turn the power back on until the system has been inspected by an electrician to avoid any additional damage.
As soon as it is safe to return to your home, you should start the insurance claim part of the hurricane recovery process. If your home has been damaged, the first step is to contact your insurance company in order to start your claim. Photograph and record the damage that the hurricane caused, this evidence should be submitted with your insurance claim. Consult your home inventory to create a comprehensive list of damaged/destroyed/lost items, including purchase dates and value with receipts.
As you will be spending your own money while waiting on your claim during the recovery process, make sure to keep all receipts for hurricane-related expenses. This will allow you to be reimbursed for any eligible expenses.