Lincoln, NE (April 18, 2025) - In the aftermath of the severe storms that impacted the state on April 17, the Nebraska Department of Insurance is urging Nebraskans affected by the storms to begin documenting their damage and contacting their insurers as soon as possible.
"After any severe storms, it's important to remember to take the proper steps to ensure your safety and also protecting your home," NDOI Director Eric Dunning said. "While it's natural to want to jump into repairs, it's important to make sure you take the proper steps to secure your home but also making sure the claims process runs smoothly."
Any Nebraskans can take the following steps if affected by the storm:
• Contact insurance agent/company as soon as possible
• Keep track of all calls with the company
• Take clear photos or videos of the damage to house
• Make TEMPORARY repairs to prevent further damage. For example, a tarp to cover a hole in the roof
• Make a list of all personal property destroyed/damaged
• Ask agent if your policy covers living expenses until repairs are made
NDOI also warns of scammers who can contact individuals following severe weather. They can use phone, text, mail, email, and even go door to door to target residents affected by the severe weather.
Some general ways that may help residents make informed decisions following a storm include:
• Work with only licensed and insured contractors.
• Don't sign a contract right away. Get multiple estimates.
• Don't pay the whole repair bill in advance. Only pay when the work is complete.
• Get everything in writing.
For more information or resources on what to do following a storm, visit doi.nebraska.gov.
