INDIANAPOLIS — When disaster hits, minutes matter.
That's why it's important to know your homeowner's policy prior to problems.
Step one, screenshot your policy on your phone.
Scott Holeman, with the Insurance Information Institute, said it's also a good idea to download your insurance company's app.
"Apps are really great for prompting you to remember different steps to do and different rooms to check, different property to check, to make sure that your claim filing is complete," Holeman said.
Next, look over what your policy covers.
For example: How does a hotel stay work?
"It's usually called ALE, or additional living expenses, and that might be a percentage based on what you pay. It's going to vary from policy to policy," Holeman said.
If something does happen to your home ... document, document, document.
That means taking pictures, recording videos and saving receipts.
"If you have to get some materials from your local hardware store to help prevent further loss, just keep those receipts because that's reimbursable under most policies," Holeman said.
Holeman also suggests not throwing anything out until you've met with an adjuster.
"You want to give them a chance to inspect anything that they might need to look at before they start doing their paperwork," Holeman said.
If you can't seem to get a hold of your insurance company or a claims adjuster, touch base with Indiana's Department of Insurance.
If your car is parked outside, it's also a good idea to have those documents handy.