FEMA Begins Disaster Assessment Today

Representatives from FEMA will be in Stonington, beginning today, Tuesday, August 30, 2011.

They are starting the initial assessment process of damage related to Tropical Storm Irene.

First Selectman Edward Haberek Jr., urged anyone with storm damage to contact the Stonington Emergency Operations Center at 860-599-7583 and 860-599-7584 to register.

More information about FEMA and the process of applying for disaster assistance can be found at www.fema.gov.

Earlier in the week Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and Thomas Leonardi, the insurance department commissioner released the following insurance tips for homeowners who experienced storm-related damage:

Document the damage with photos or videos.

Make a list of the damaged items and compile any receipts you have for them.

Make temporary repairs for your safety and the safety of your property.

Typical homeowners’ policies do not cover damage from floods caused by overflowing rivers, streams, tidal waters and storm surges. Flood insurance would be required in that case. Important to note: There is a 30-day waiting period from the time you buy flood insurance until the time it goes into effect.

Most homeowners’ policies will cover tree removal only if the tree fell and damaged property, such as a building or vehicle. If it falls in a yard and doesn’t hit anything, removal costs are generally not covered by insurance. Always consult your agent, company or read your policy to be sure.

Your insurance policy or insurance card has a toll-free claims number. If you cannot find your policy, the insurance department has a list of insurers on its Web site that includes both the company websites and toll-free numbers. This information is also available on the state’s Irene website page and through the state’s information line, 211.

The insurance department will be staffed tomorrow (Monday) to help policyholders with questions and concerns.