“Go to your town hall and look up what kinds of permits were pulled and when. This is public record and will tell you what type of damage a home might have previously incurred.” – Mara Briere, whose Bedford home was destroyed by floods
“Find out who the president is at every company you’re dealing with and go right to them. Fight for what you’re entitled to. It will become a part-time job, but if you don’t stand up for yourself, you’ll just be a number.” – Matt Roberts, whose Essex home was consumed by fire
“Our goal is to make sure [homeowners] get the most coverage they can from the policy they purchase. In some cases, people are surprised to find the coverage isn’t what they thought it was. By and large, in most cases, this is an agent’s opportunity to assist a client and walk them through the most stressful time in their life.” Owners should videotapethe contents of their home, noting all valuable possessions, and store the tape in a safe place. This will make the claims process smoother. — Deland, Gibson Insurance agent Tom Skelly, past chairman of the Massachusetts Association of Insurance Agents
“Every homeowner should remember that bug and termite damage isn’t included with insurance. The value of your house could completely disappear with termite damage. Check it thoroughly during the home inspection” and be vigilant about it after you buy. – Bob Bettinson, insurance agent, Bettinson Insurance Agency Inc.
“Hire a public insurance adjuster. They are the intermediary between you and the insurance company. You need someone who understands codes and schedules.” – Joel Miranda, whose Revere home was hit by a tornado
Homeowners should be aware that after a claim is filed, community officials could require them to bring something that isn’t covered up to code. Insurance for that situation is called “ordinance or law coverage,” and it is something to consider, especially when you own an old home. — Bettinson
“Keep a ‘go’ bag someplace easily accessible if you need to leave your house in a hurry. Fill it with essentials and copies of your important records, like a driver’s license and Social Security card.” — Tim Pitoniak, American Red Cross of Massachusetts