Storm Recovery Information
Storm Recovery Information
We urge residents impacted by Wednesday’s tornado to be cautious when approached by unsolicited contractors offering repairs. Unfortunately, there are individuals and businesses who attempt to take advantage of residents during difficult times, especially homeowners dealing with storm-related damage. Please don’t believe them if they say FEMA or the State will pay for any part of it.
Please see this information we put together; you can also find additional information on Illinois Home Repair and Construction Repair Rights here: Illinois Home Repair Rights Click Here
Before Signing a Contract:
- Contact your insurance agent before agreeing to any repairs.
- Ask friends, family, or your insurance company for contractor referrals.
- Take time to research contractors and verify their credentials.
- Never feel pressured to sign a contract immediately.
If you believe you were pressured or forced into signing a contract, Illinois law gives you three business days to cancel it. For assistance, contact the Illinois Attorney General’s Consumer Fraud Hotline at 1-800-243-0618.
Debris Removal
Contact your insurance company before removing debris. Property owners are generally responsible for clearing debris from their property, but many insurance policies cover debris removal as part of restoring your property after a loss. Your insurance company can explain what is covered and what documentation may be required.
Tree Removal
Check directly with your insurance provider to determine whether tree removal is covered and what limitations may apply.
Many homeowners’ insurance policies provide only limited coverage for tree removal. In many cases, insurance may cover removing a tree from a home or structure to prevent additional damage, but it may not cover hauling the tree away from the property.
If you hire a contractor to remove trees, make sure the contract clearly states whether removal and disposal are included. Contractors who agree to remove trees should also be responsible for properly disposing of them according to the terms of their contract.
Homeowner Disaster Damage Assessment Checklist
Safety First
• Beware of downed power lines, exposed wires, standing water (may be electrically charged), gas leaks, structural instability, and mold.
• Wear protective gear: thick-soled shoes, long sleeves/pants, and gloves when cleaning debris.
1. Document Everything (Critical for Insurance)
• Take clear photos and videos before any cleanup or repairs: wide shots of the entire property and close-ups of all damage (roof, walls, foundation, windows, personal items).
• Create a detailed inventory of damaged/destroyed items, including description, estimated value, age, and purchase date.
• Medications & Medical Needs: List all lost or damaged prescriptions, refrigerated medications, medical equipment (CPAP, wheelchair, oxygen, etc.), and note special medical needs.
• Keep all receipts for temporary repairs and supplies (tarps, boards, generators, etc.).
• Do not discard major damaged items until documented and inspected.
2. Assess Structural & Property Damage
• Exterior: Roof, siding, windows/doors, foundation, chimney, outbuildings, fencing.
• Interior: Water damage, drywall, flooring, insulation, mold.
• Systems: HVAC, electrical, plumbing, septic/well.
• Note any temporary mitigation steps taken.
3. Contact Your Insurance Provider Immediately
• File a claim with your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance right away.
• Keep a detailed log of all communications (date, time, representative name, and details).
• Ask about coverage for temporary housing and additional living expenses.
4. Finances & Aid Preparation
• Continue making mortgage payments even if the home is damaged or destroyed.
• Organize all photos, videos, inventories, receipts, proof of residency, and special needs documentation.
• Be prepared to provide this information if state, or federal assistance should become available.
5. Protect Yourself from Scams
• Be wary of door-to-door contractors and high-pressure offers.
• Obtain at least three written estimates, verify references and licenses.
• Never pay in full upfront or sign contracts immediately.
Additional Tips
• Start a daily log of expenses, actions, and communications.
• Prioritize health and seek medical attention if needed for medication loss or exposure.
• File with insurance first — many aid programs require proof of insurance claim status.
