Tornado Damage Recovery Resources

SPRINGFIELD – As families in South Cook and Will Counties cope with storm and tornado damage, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) offers the guidelines for moving toward recovery.  When wide-spread damage occurs from natural disasters, IDFPR warns Illinois families to be careful to deal only with licensed roofing contractors, public adjusters and insurance producers.  

“When disaster strikes, a family’s first instinct is to get repairs underway as quickly as possible.  Unfortunately, predators understand that desire and take advantage of families trying to restore their homes,” said Dean Martinez, Secretary, IDFPR.  “Using licensed professionals and calling IDFPR with questions will help protect homeowners from unscrupulous dealers.” 

After a tornado or other natural disaster, families and business owners should take additional care when hiring a contractor to repair any damage:

• Take immediate steps to prevent additional damage to buildings but do not get rid of damaged materials until after an insurance company assessment of damage.
• Make sure any damage is repaired by reputable contractors; check with local building departments or the Better Business Bureau for guidance.
• Make sure roofers are licensed and in good standing with IDFPR
• Don't rush into signing a contract. Collect a number of written estimates for the job.
• Notify the insurance company immediately and work with its representative to evaluate the damage and review your policies for coverage information.

The Division of Insurance has developed a series of recommendations on how to work effectively with insurance companies after a natural disaster at http://www.idfpr.com/DOI/HomeInsurance/disaster.asp.