ABC 15-TV
Angie Holdsworth
Oct. 6, 2010

PHOENIX - Insurance claims adjusters are scrambling to assess damage from Tuesday's storms and get homeowners back on their feet.

Allstate is putting a "mobile claims unit" in the hardest hit areas and State Farm set up an emergency call center. Some insurance companies are initiating contact with policy holders in Arizona to try to hone in on problem areas.

State Farm Insurance spokesman, Gus Miranda estimated over 3,000 claims for auto damage and 2,000 property claims were reported by Wednesday morning. Those numbers were expected to climb drastically throughout the day.

"This is one of the worst we've experienced," Miranda said. "Damage is Valley wide."

Claims adjusters are focusing on the hardest hit homes first and it could be several days before they are able to get to properties with more minor problems.

"A lot of times there will be water damage in the home and a company like ours will come out and dry it out to prevent further damage," said Shane Orlando, owner of Orlando Restoration. Orlando said sometimes people overlook the minor damage and end up with big problems in the future.

"You see a lot of people who think they can handle it themselves and don't see all the damage. They sometimes wait until the insurance agent comes out and by that time more damage has occurred," he said.

Orlando said failing to mitigate the damages can impact your claim.

It is advised to put tarp over leaks and secure windows to prevent further damage in the coming days.

Common exclusions from a standard policy include flood damage or mold and rot. Coverage for that kind of damage requires extra coverage.

The Arizona Insurance Council has a number of tips on their website for homeowners to help them file claims and understand their coverage.

Regardless of the severity of damage it is recommended you contact your agent right away. Take pictures and document the damage as soon as possible. Keep all your receipts for any clean-up or temporary repairs you might make and prepare a list of items damaged.