Weather forecasters are predicting severe storms in the Chicagoland area later today, with the possibility of large hail, damaging winds, heavy rain, and “possible” isolated tornadoes.
As your insurance agency, all of here at Langlois Insurance Agency want to help you take a few simple precautions to protect your home, vehicles, and family before the storms arrive.
Steps to Protect Your Property
1. Move Vehicles to Safety
- If possible, park vehicles in a garage or covered structure to protect them from hail damage.
- If a garage is not available, consider parking near sturdy structures or under covered parking.
2. Secure Outdoor Items
- Bring in or secure patio furniture, grills, umbrellas, garbage cans, and decorations.
- Loose items can become dangerous projectiles in high winds.
3. Protect Windows and Doors
- Close and latch all windows and doors securely.
- Consider closing blinds or curtains to help reduce interior damage if glass breaks.
4. Check Gutters and Drains
- Make sure downspouts and drains are clear so heavy rain can properly drain away from your home.
5. Move Valuables Away from Windows
- Move electronics or valuables away from windows and exterior walls if possible.
6. Prepare for Power Outages
- Charge phones and backup batteries.
- Have flashlights available in case of power loss.
7. Stay Weather Aware
- Monitor local weather alerts and warnings.
- If a tornado warning is issued, move to the lowest level of your home or an interior room away from windows.
After the Storm
If your home or vehicle experiences damage:
- Take photos of the damage as soon as it is safe.
- Take reasonable steps to prevent further damage (temporary tarps, etc.).
- Contact our office and we will assist you with the claims process immediately.
Our team is here to help if you have any questions or need assistance after the storm.
Beware of Storm Chasers:
If a Storm Chaser knocks on your door, here are a few items to remember:
- Don’t sign anything until you’ve spoken with your insurance agent here at Langlois Insurance Agency at #815-485-2106. Oftentimes, the Storm Chasers/Hail Hunters try to get you to sign their contract which is actually a Public Adjuster Contract, not a Roofing Contract. If you sign this contract, you are signing all of your rights away to the claim to the Public Adjuster and you would be LOCKED into only being able to use that Public Adjusters roofing company, In addition to this, you will have to pay them a commission of up to 30% of the value of the claim for their services.
- Never, ever let these people up on your roof (I can’t emphasize this enough).
- Many times, they will offer to waive your deductible. Not only is this unethical, it is also illegal.
- If you feel like a claim needs to be started, you have 12 months from the date of the storm to start the claim. So please don’t feel rushed to file a claim and don’t let them rush you to make a decision.
- We always recommend that our customers not have these storm chasing companies do the work. Hire a local reputable roofing company to do the work. We have several reputable local companies that we can recommend to you.
If you feel that you have damage caused by a storm to your property, you should contact any of us at Langlois Insurance Agency and file a claim. That claim will be reported to your insurance company and an adjuster will be assigned.
Stay safe and please take precautions this afternoon.