When a disaster strikes, safety comes first. Once the danger has passed, small business owners face the challenge of recovery. For businesses with fewer than 10 employees, every hour of downtime matters. Use this guide to help manage the claims process and protect your cash flow.

Protect your property from further damage.
Once it is safe to return, take reasonable steps to prevent more damage. Cover broken windows, tarp a damaged roof, or move equipment to a dry area.

Do not make major or permanent repairs until a claims adjuster has inspected the damage.

Keep receipts: Save all receipts for materials and labor. These costs may be reimbursed.

Contact your insurance carrier right away.
Call your agent or the company’s claims hotline as soon as possible. After a disaster, many claims are filed at once, so getting in line early matters.

You want to know:

• What types of damage are covered under your policy?
• Do you have business interruption coverage to help cover payrool and other expenses?
• What documents do you need to show lost revenue?
• How soon can an adjuster visit your property?

Keep records.
The more detail you can provide, the smoother the process will be. Do not throw anything away until the adjuster has seen it.

• Take photos and video of all damage before cleaning up.
• List damaged items with estimated purchase dates and replacement costs.
• If records were lost, check email, cloud storage, or social media for photos that show your space or equipment.

Prepare for the adjuster’s visit.
Note visible damage, such as foundation cracks, roof damage, or water lines on walls.

Ask your insurer if electrical and HVAC inspections are covered before scheduling them.

Hire licensed, local contractors.
Be cautious of out-of-town “storm chasers” offering quick repairs.

Get written bids. Estimates should list materials and labor separately.
Check credentials. Verify licenses and insurance before hiring.
Avoid large upfront payments, and try not to sign major repair contracts until you understand what your insurance will cover.

Keep everything organized.
Disaster recovery creates a lot of paperwork. Keep it in one place.

Write down dates, names, and details of every call.
Save copies of everything you send and receive.

Plan for the future.
After your claim is settled, take time to review your coverage. Were you fully protected? Did you have enough replacement cost coverage? Talk with your agent about any gaps so you’re better prepared next time.