New York State
Insurance Department

           Superintendent of Insurance Neil D. Levin today announced that the Insurance Department is available to help New Yorkers whose property was damaged by the severe thunderstorms that struck the Capital District this past Friday. Consumers are encouraged to call the Insurance Department’s toll-free hotline for assistance with their storm-related insurance inquiries or complaints. The toll-free number is 1-800-342-3736.

            The Department’s hotline is staffed from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. by insurance experts from the Department’s Consumer Services Bureau.

            In general, homeowners insurance policies cover damage to your home as a result of such perils as wind and falling objects. Homeowners policies will pay for certain tree removal if the tree has caused damage to your home. In addition, food spoilage losses due to power disruptions are usually covered under the standard homeowners policy.

            Damage to automobiles from falling objects is covered if your automobile policy has comprehensive physical damage coverage for the damaged vehicle.

            The Department reminds New Yorkers with damaged property that they should be contacting their individual insurer representatives as soon as possible. They should also be making every effort to protect their homes from further damage, such as covering any roof damage that has occurred as a result of the storms. Permanent repairs should wait until the insurance company’s adjuster has inspected the property.