Standing With Our Community After the Storm: Insurance Claim Tips for Wisconsin Homeowners and Businesses

For more than 70 years, Di Renzo & Bomier has had the privilege of serving this community and calling it home. We have celebrated its successes, shared in its challenges, and witnessed firsthand the resilience of the people who make this area such a special place to live.

The recent tornado has left many of our friends, neighbors, clients, and fellow community members facing heartbreaking losses. Homes have been damaged, businesses have been disrupted, and families are now navigating the difficult road to recovery and facing uncertainty about what comes next.

Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this storm. We are especially grateful to the first responders, utility crews, emergency personnel, volunteers, and countless neighbors who have stepped forward to help. Their dedication reminds us that, even in the face of tremendous loss, our community is at its strongest when we come together.

Given the devastating property damage and loss of personal property that has impacted countless members of the community, it is an inevitable reality that thousands of community members will be filing insurance claims with their home, auto, and/or commercial insurance providers. While every insurance company and claim is different, the overarching theme is that the claims process is often overwhelming, especially after a disaster of this magnitude. With that in mind, we at Di Renzo & Bomier wanted to share a few practical tips and reminders that may help the process of dealing with insurance companies.

Document Everything

If it is safe to do so and to the extent it is practical, we recommend that you take photographs and videos of all damage before beginning cleanup. Keep any and all receipts for emergency repairs, temporary lodging, meals, and other expenses that may be covered under your policy. Maintaining organized records can make the claims process much smoother.

Read Your Policy Carefully

Keep in mind that your insurance policy is a contract. Like any contract, it can be a minefield of uncertainty and difficult to understand, particularly during an already stressful time. Nevertheless, knowing what your policy covers, including any deadlines or requirements for submitting documentation, is extremely important. If any aspect of your policy is unclear, do not hesitate to ask your insurance representative for an explanation.

Don't Feel Pressured to Rush or Settle

After such a devastating and traumatic event, the desire to want to move forward as quickly as possible is understandable. However, significant storm damage is not always immediately visible. Water intrusion, structural issues, and/or electrical damage may become apparent only after more thorough inspections. Before agreeing to a final settlement on an insurance claim, make sure all damage has been properly identified and evaluated.

Keep Good Records

Whenever you speak with your insurance company, make note of the date, the person you spoke with, and what was discussed. Whenever possible, communicate by email or request written confirmation of important conversations or explanations in writing. We recommend that you maintain a specific file with photographs, estimates, receipts, emails, and notes.

Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions

As a policyholder, you have the right to understand how your claim is being handled. If a claim is denied, a payment seems lower than you expected, or you receive a settlement offer you do not understand, ask for an explanation – preferably in writing. You have every right to understand how your claim was evaluated and how the insurance company arrived at its decision. A good insurance company should be willing to explain the process and answer your questions.

Be Careful of Storm-Related Scams

We live in a world of ever-increasing cyber and financial scams – scams that become more sophisticated by the day. Unfortunately, major disasters often attract dishonest contractors and scammers. Before hiring anyone to perform repairs, verify that they are properly licensed and insured, obtain written estimates, and be cautious of anyone requesting large upfront payments or pressuring you to sign documents immediately.

Recovery Takes Time

No one expects the recovery process to be easy. It often takes patience, persistence, and the support of family, friends, neighbors, and dedicated professionals. For generations, we've seen this community overcome difficult times through hard work, compassion, and neighbors helping neighbors. We have every confidence that the same spirit will carry us through this recovery as well.

At Di Renzo & Bomier, we believe that understanding your rights and asking informed questions is one of the best ways to protect yourself during the insurance process. Whether you're rebuilding a home, helping a family member, or simply looking for reliable information, we encourage you to take your time, keep good records, and don't hesitate to seek answers when something doesn't seem right.

Above all, we hope everyone stays safe, supports one another, and knows that none of us faces challenges like these alone. Should you have any additional questions, do not hesitate to reach out to our firm and speak with one of our dedicated professionals.

Our hearts remain with every family affected by this storm, and we wish our entire community strength and healing in the days ahead.