Insurers explain how to act after storm damage to property
Following a weekend storm that damaged buildings, crops and vehicles across Latvia, the Latvian Insurers Association has outlined steps for filing insurance claims. It has also asked residents to be patient given the likely high volume of claims.
A storm that swept across Latvia over the weekend has left considerable damage in its wake, affecting buildings, agricultural crops, cars and other property. The Latvian Insurers Association (LAA) is urging residents who hold property, motor (KASKO) or accident insurance and have suffered losses to report the incident to their insurer, while cautioning that responses may not come immediately due to an expected surge in claims.
Safety comes first
The association stresses that personal safety must be the priority. People should not approach or attempt to repair damaged buildings, land or vehicles that appear unsafe. Particular caution is advised around fallen trees, unstable roof structures, torn power lines and flooded electrical equipment. If emergency services are needed, they should be contacted first.
Document the damage and limit further loss
Before starting any cleanup, residents are advised to photograph or film the damage where possible, capturing both an overall view and close-ups of specific damaged areas such as roofs, facades, windows, fences, vehicles or flooded rooms. If something must be urgently dismantled or moved, this should also be documented beforehand.
Where it can be done safely, the LAA recommends taking steps to prevent additional losses, such as covering a damaged roof ahead of forecast rain or disconnecting damaged electrical appliances. Receipts and invoices for any urgent repair work or materials should be kept.
Filing a claim
Claims should be submitted to the insurer as soon as possible through the channels it specifies. The report should describe what happened, when and where the damage occurred, what exactly was damaged, and what measures have already been taken to limit further losses. Photos or video should be attached if available. The insurer will then advise on any additional documents required and whether an inspection of the damaged property or vehicle is needed.
