06/12/2026
Our Hearts heavily go out to the displaced Families and Pets in NWI tonight.
If you are wondering what to do next this is important!
🚨
If your home has been damaged by a tornado and is not safe to live in, contact your insurance company immediately and report the loss.
STEP 1: REPORT THE CLAIM
Call your insurance company and tell them:
• The date and time of the tornado.
• Your claim number (if already assigned).
• That the home is not safe or habitable.
• You need assistance with temporary housing.
Ask the representative:
“Do I have Coverage D - Loss of Use (Additional Living Expense) coverage available under my policy?”
STEP 2: REQUEST A HOTEL
Most homeowner policies include Coverage D (Loss of Use or Additional Living Expense), which helps pay for reasonable increases in living expenses when your home cannot be occupied due to a covered loss.
Tell the insurance company:
“My home is currently uninhabitable due to tornado damage, and I need temporary housing arrangements.”
The carrier may:
• Book a hotel directly.
• Use a housing vendor.
• Reimburse you for hotel expenses you pay yourself.
STEP 3: SAVE ALL RECEIPTS
Keep receipts for anything you pay because you cannot live in your home, including:
• Hotel stays
• Extended stay lodging
• Meals (when you cannot cook at home)
• Laundry expenses
• Pet boarding
• Additional fuel or transportation costs related to displacement
Take pictures of all receipts and save digital copies.
STEP 4: DOCUMENT YOUR EXPENSES
Create a simple log that includes:
Date | Expense | Amount
______ | ______ | ______
Example:
03/10/2026 | Hotel Stay | $142.50
03/11/2026 | Dinner While Displaced | $38.42
03/12/2026 | Laundry | $12.00
STEP 5: SUBMIT RECEIPTS REGULARLY
Do not wait until the end of the claim.
Email receipts to your adjuster every 1-2 weeks and ask for reimbursement.
Keep copies of:
• All receipts
• Emails sent
• Checks received
• Hotel invoices
IMPORTANT
Do not assume your hotel stay is automatically approved. Always notify the insurance company as soon as possible and request confirmation that temporary housing and Additional Living Expenses (ALE) are being covered under your policy.
If you have questions about coverage, ask your adjuster to explain your “Loss of Use” or “Additional Living Expense (ALE)” coverage limits and duration.
if the home has no roof, major structural damage, no utilities, exposed electrical wiring, or is otherwise unsafe to occupy, tell the carrier immediately. Those conditions are often strong indicators that Loss of Use/Additional Living Expense coverage should be considered while repairs are being completed.
