Insurance Department urges storm victims to save receipts

MID URGES STORM VICTIMS TO SAVE STORM
REPAIR RECEIPTS FOR REIMBURSEMENT

Jackson- Mississippi storm victims who are hiring laborers and contractors to remove trees
and debris from their damaged property are urged to save receipts so they may be properly
reimbursed by their insurance company.

If you have questions or problems with filing or completing your claim, the Mississippi
Insurance Department is available to assist consumers at its Consumer Assistance Center in the
Big Lots parking area in Clinton, or you may call our Consumer Hotline at 1-800-562-2957.

Commissioner of Insurance Mike Chaney also warns consumers to be wary of costs that may
seem exorbitant for the work performed.

“Insurance companies may not be obligated to pay the full amount on a receipt submitted for
reimbursement for tree and debris removal. To make sure you get fully compensated, consider
contacting your insurer ahead of time before employing someone to remove trees or debris or
rebuilding,” Chaney said.

The Mississippi Insurance Department offers the following tips to consider when hiring
someone to help with the cleanup of your damaged property:

When paying for tree and debris removal,you will typically be paying for hourly labor
Ask the contractor up front how many hours will be required and how many men he will
use for the job (A generally acceptable rate for tree removal for example is $50 -$60
per hour per person on the crew. ***Note that there can be special circumstances which
would make that rate higher).
If you are being charged more ask questions as to why the rate is higher
Get a written copy of the agreed upon amount before the work begins
Always pay by check or money order and keep a receipt.
The charges must be a reasonable amount. Again if you have questions, contact your
insurance company before employing a contractor.

MID
4/19/11