5 things to know about Minnesota storm coverage and claims

Surveying the damage from Tuesday's storm? Worried about filing insurance claims, who's responsible for what — and not getting ripped off? The Minnesota Commerce Department has some answers.

The department, which regulates the insurance industry in Minnesota, is posting information to its disaster information center website and urging people to email insurance questions to consumer.protection@state.mn.us or call 651-539-1600 or 800-657-3602.

Here are the basics: Your homeowner's insurance will generally cover removal of a fallen tree only if it damaged your house or other insured structure; it may also cover water damage from wind, hail and rain. Car storm damage from hail, a fallen tree or flooding may be covered if you chose "comprehensive" or "other than collision" in your auto policy.

Here are five key takeaways from the department.

1) Make temporary inexpensive repairs to prevent further damage. Board up broken windows or throw a tarp over a leaky roof. Keep receipts for materials you buy, so you can be reimbursed. Do not make permanent repairs until your insurance company has inspected the damage.

2) Record the damage. Take photos or video if possible. Make a detailed list of all personal property destroyed, damaged or lost. You will want to share the list with the insurance adjuster. Do not throw out any damaged items until the adjuster has inspected them.

3) Adjusters. Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage to your home and personal property and provide you with a proof-of-loss form. The insurer pays the adjuster, so you should not be asked for any payment.

You may be contacted by a public adjuster who may offer to represent you in claim negotiations with your insurer. You are not required to hire a public adjuster to file a claim. If you go that route, check with Commerce to make sure they're licensed.

4) Avoid "door-to-door" contractors. Once your insurance claim is processed, get estimates from local contractors known to you or recommended by someone you trust. Avoid "storm chaser" contractors from out of town who go door to door.

Ask contractors for references and proof of workers compensation insurance. Check their license status and any disciplinary actions at the Minnesota Department of Labor & Industry website.

Insist on detailed, written estimates for repairs. Avoid high-pressure sales tactics. Some scammers will try to trick you into signing a contract by saying it is an estimate. Your signature is not required to receive an estimate.

5) Get it in writing. Prepare a written contract agreement with anyone you hire. It should specify the work to be done, the materials to be used and the price breakdown for both labor and materials.

Do not pay the whole repair bill in advance. Pay in full only when the work is completed according to your agreement.