Irma damage in Georgia at least $336 million

ALBANY — While damage in metro Albany was less than what officials had feared it would be when Tropical Storm Irma shifted west and came roaring through the area on Sept. 11, the Georgia insurance commissioner said Thursday the cost statewide is at least $336 million.

Insurance Commission Ralph Hudgens said more than 50,000 property-related insurance claims have been reported from the powerful storm.

“Our preliminary estimate today is $336 million in damage across Georgia,” Hudgens said Thursday. “That figure may rise as new claims are submitted.”

As of Thursday, Hudgens said, 56,491 claims had been filed with various insurance companies, with policyholders receiving nearly $77.5 million in settlement payments. The majority of the reported damage, he said, was related to homeowners insurance.

In making claims, Hudgens said, consumers should:

— Work with the insurance company by asking what documents, forms and data are needed for filing a claim;

— Keep a diary of all conversations with insurance, companies, creditors or relief agencies;

— Maintain any damaged personal property for the adjuster to inspect;

— Ask the adjuster for an itemized explanation of the claim settlement offer;

— Be wary of contractors who demand up-front payment before work is initiated or payment in full before work is completed;

— If a contractor needs payment to buy supplies, go with the contractor and pay the supplier directly;

— Get more than one bid;

— Ask for at least three references before agreeing on a contractor;

— Check with the Better Business Bureau about the contractor;

— Ask for proof of necessary licenses, building permits, insurance and bonding;

— Record the license plate number and driver’s license number of the contractor;

— If there is a disagreement about a claim, ask the company for the specific language in the policy in question and determine why you and the company interpret your policy differently;

— If the first offer made by an insurance company does not meet expectations, be prepared to negotiate to get a fair settlement.

Consumers who believe they have been treated unfairly in getting a claim paid can contact Hudgens’ office at 1 (800) 656-2298.

Phone lines are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday.