Montanans advised to be wary on storm damage

Press release

A release from the office of the Montana state auditor is advising Montanans to be vigilant after storms this week caused hail and wind damage throughout Eastern Montana.

Montanans have experienced problems with out-of-state contractors after major weather events in recent years. It’s important for homeowners to take the right steps from the beginning to prevent bigger problems down the road. Consumers must take ownership of the process and not hand off responsibility to third parties. Property owners control all of the contractual agreements with insurers and contractors, it’s ultimately up to the consumer to make sure everything happens properly.

If a person’s property was damaged, they should:

1. Immediately take photos and thoroughly document all damage before beginning any cleanup or repairs.

2. Take steps to prevent further destruction of the property. Cover broken windows and holes in roofs, put tarps over places that could get more water or wind damage, etc.

3. Contact their insurance company and get the claims process started; make sure they understand their deductible, what is and isn’t covered and their responsibilities.

4. Don’t sign an agreement with a contractor until they have talked to their insurance agent or company representative.

5. Beware of high-pressure sales tactics and unsolicited offers from contractors. Don’t feel rushed to sign a repair contract. Get multiple bids and check references. Choose a contractor who will work with their insurance adjuster to assess damage and costs of repair.

6. Verify that the contractor they are considering is registered to do business in Montana, has workers compensation insurance, liability insurance and is bonded.

7. Get a written contract and never pay in full for work before it’s completed.

8. Maintain ownership of the process: don’t hand over Power of Attorney or responsibility for settling the insurance claim, don’t sign a contract that has blanks or isn’t thorough.

9. When dealing with damage to vehicles or trailers, work with reputable auto body shops and get multiple bids.

10. Contact the Montana auditor’s office with questions or concerns about insurance at 444-2040 or http://csimt.gov .

11. Contact the Montana Office of Consumer Protection with concerns about contractors at 444-4500 or http://dojmt.gov/consumer.

12. If people dodged impacts from the recent storms, they should take time to review their insurance policy, pay attention to their deductibles and other details, and make sure they have the coverage they want in case of future weather damage.