Action Plan for Those Who Have Experienced Home Loss

We understand that navigating loss and recovery can be overwhelming. This action plan is designed to help you take immediate steps toward stability and long-term rebuilding.

Immediate Steps

1. Get a PO Box – Secure a mailing address where you can receive essential correspondence.

2. Search for a Long-Term Rental – Work with your insurance provider to ensure they cover the cost of a suitable rental home. Find a place you’re comfortable in, as you may be there for up to two years.

3. Obtain Essential Supplies – Purchase sturdy boots, gloves, and shovels to assist with cleanup.

4. Begin a Personal Property Inventory – Keep a running list of lost items as you remember them. This process is difficult but necessary for insurance claims. Use a notepad or your phone to jot down details as they come to mind.

5. Save Receipts – Many insurance policies cover incidental expenses, including toiletries, chargers, and other necessities.

6. Ask About Discounts – When making purchases, explain your situation to store owners. Many businesses offer discounts to help those recovering from disasters.

7. Accept Help from Others – Friends and family want to support you. If someone offers to run errands, let them. Shopping may feel like a burden rather than a comfort right now.

Comprehensive Recovery Plan

1. Register for Assistance

   • Sign up with local shelters, the Red Cross, FEMA (if activated), and any other available relief organizations.

   • Aid distribution often depends on these registration lists, ensuring you receive available support.

2. Contact Your Homeowners or Rental Insurance Provider

   • Initiate your Loss of Use coverage, which may provide housing and immediate funds for essentials.

   • This step also starts the claims process for your home and personal property.

3. Forward Mail to Your PO Box

   • Use this address for all official correspondence moving forward.

4. Secure a Long-Term Rental

   • Work with your insurance company to have rental payments made directly using Loss of Use funds.

   • While you may need to rent for 1-2 years, consider a flexible lease in case circumstances change.

5. Create an Itemized Inventory of Lost Belongings

   • Organize by room and document all lost items, along with their replacement cost.

   • Use the full retail price (not discounted) as the replacement value.

   • List everything, even if it exceeds your policy limit, as losses beyond coverage may be deductible on your taxes.

6. Manage Utility Accounts

   • Freeze or cancel services such as electricity, gas, TV, landline phone, and newspaper delivery.

   • Update your mailing address with providers as needed.

7. Review Other Insurance Policies

   • Notify your car insurance provider if vehicles were lost or damaged.

   • Address any specialty insurance (e.g., for valuable items or collectibles).

8. Obtain Necessary Permits

   • Debris Removal – Required before clearing your property (often covered by insurance, but you may need to push for it).

   • Erosion Control – If your property has slopes, preventative measures may be required.

   • Temporary Power/Trailer Permits – If you plan to stay on-site during rebuilding, securing power and shelter early can be beneficial.

9. Understand Tax Implications

   • You may be able to deduct personal property losses that exceed your insurance payout.

   • Some tax laws allow for loss claims to be applied retroactively, potentially resulting in a tax refund.

10. Connect with Others Going Through Recovery

• Engage with community members facing similar challenges.

• Share resources and insights to navigate insurance, rebuilding, and assistance programs efficiently.

This process will take time, and there will be emotional challenges along the way. Lean on your support system, take breaks when needed, and remember that you are not alone in this journey.