COLUMBIA, S.C. (FOX Carolina) – With evacuation orders in effect across the Carolinas, officials are proactively offering vital insurance information to residents whose homes may have been affected by recent fires.
If a resident’s home has suffered damage or destruction due to fire, officials have outlined key steps to take:
- Safety First: Ensure the home is safe before entering.
- Contact Insurance Immediately: Contact your insurance agent or carrier as soon as possible to initiate the claims process.
- Document the Damage: Take photos or videos of the property and retain damaged items for the insurance company’s inspection.
- Inventory Damaged Items: Create a detailed list of all damaged items.
- Seek Professional Guidance: Avoid cleaning or making repairs before consulting with the insurance company or a restoration professional.
Residents are urged to avoid signing any documents they do not fully understand. They should also refrain from paying for work upfront or in full until satisfied with the repairs.
For detailed information, residents in North Carolina can visit the North Carolina Department of Insurance webpage dedicated to fire recovery resources. South Carolina residents can contact the Department of Insurance’s Office of Consumer Services at 803-737-6180 for additional assistance and helpful guidance in navigating the claims process.
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