Disasters may cause widespread damage to your community and to your home. When such an event has impacted your home, it is important to return to a normal life in the shortest possible period of time. This will help relieve the stress and burden associated with having gone through a disaster.

Immediately after a disaster, you should make sure your home is safe. Depending on the type of disaster, there may be exposed electrical wires, standing water or a gas leak. If your home is uninhabitable, your insurance policy will help you put your life back in order.

The first step is to contact your insurance provider and report your claim. You should provide them with your policy number and your contact information so they can help you through the claims process.

Next, you should conduct an inventory of all your personal property. If possible, provide the adjuster with photos, receipts or video of the loss site prior to the event. This will help the adjuster when evaluating the damages to your property.

If your home is uninhabitable, find temporary housing for your family to live in while your home is being repaired. Make sure you keep all receipts associated with the temporary housing, meals and other miscellaneous expenses because you may be reimbursed.

Don't forget that recovery takes time. Luckily, your insurance coverage will help you recover from the unexpected in no time.