Georgia Insurance Commissioner King urges residents to gather documents, photograph valuables, beware of scammers ahead of Helene

ATLANTA – As Hurricane Helene approaches Georgia, Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King is urging residents to take several precautions before the storm.

“Hurricane Helene is expected to make landfall along the Gulf Coast as a major hurricane and continue into Georgia with devastating wind speeds,” said Commissioner King. “Because these damaging winds can affect areas hundreds of miles away from the expected trajectory, all Georgians should begin preparing for the storm.”

• Before the storm, make a list of all your covered items (furniture, electronics, appliances, valuables, etc). Make sure to keep an electronic copy of this list, which should include pictures.
• Write down and photograph all property damage brought by Hurricane Idalia, including broken windows, damaged roofs, lost personal items, and more.
• Notify your insurance company of any damages immediately.
• Do not attempt significant or permanent repairs.
• If it is safe to do so, you can cover your roof with a tarp or board up broken windows but leave the significant repairs to the experts.
• Save all receipts. They will be useful if you file a claim with your insurance company.
• Beware of scammers.
• Be wary of anyone knocking on your door offering unsolicited repairs to your home.
• Be suspicious of contractors who try to rush you, especially on non-emergency or temporary repairs.
• Do not sign any document from any contractor until you have spoken to your insurance company DIRECTLY.
• Be especially cautious of out-of-state contractors.
• Do not believe a contractor who says they are supported by the government. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) does not endorse individual contractors or loan companies. For more information, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA.

“We have a talented, world-class consumer services team that stands ready to help any Georgian with insurance questions in the wake of Hurricane Helene,” King said. “Whether you are dealing with a bad actor or just have a question about how to work with your insurance company, call toll-free at 1-800-656-2298.”