SCC Bureau of Insurance helps with storm coverage questions

The recent storms and tornadoes throughout parts of Virginia have left many people with damaged homes, businesses or automobiles. Virginia Insurance Commissioner Jacqueline K. Cunningham encourages Virginians who suffered property damage as a result of the recent storms to contact their insurance company or agent as soon as possible to determine what coverage is available under their insurance policy.

The insurance agent or company will also be able to guide consumers through the process of filing a claim.

The State Corporation Commission’s (SCC) Bureau of Insurance can provide assistance to consumers who have problems contacting their insurance company or agent or have questions or concerns about their insurance. Contact information for insurance companies and agents is available on the Bureau’s website at www.scc.virginia.gov/boi/ConsumerInquiry/. Consumers also may contact the Bureau through its toll-free telephone number at 1-877-310-6560. To reach the Consumer Services Section of the Bureau’s Property and Casualty Division in Richmond, call (804) 371-9185.

Commissioner Cunningham suggests taking pictures of damaged property, saving receipts for repair costs, and protecting your property from further damage. Do not remove or destroy any damaged property until the insurance company has had a chance to inspect it.

The Bureau of Insurance offers consumer guides with tips on what to do when a disaster strikes. Guides are available for homeowners and businesses. Both provide answers to the most commonly asked questions about settling disaster-related insurance problems. These guides are available on the Bureau’s website at www.scc.virginia.gov/boi/pubs.aspx.

The SCC is located at 1300 East Main Street in downtown Richmond. Normal business hours are from 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m. Correspondence may be mailed to the Bureau at P. O. Box 1157, Richmond, Virginia 23218. The Bureau may also be contacted electronically at [email protected].

For additional emergency preparedness information relating to tornadoes and other types of disasters, visit www.ready.virginia.gov. This statewide public education effort is designed to prepare Virginians for all types of hazards.