Dover, DE - Based on reports received within the past 24 hours from 5 of the top 10 carriers, Delaware Insurance Commissioner Karen Weldin Stewart states, "insured damages due to Hurricane Irene exceed $2 million. The remaining 5 companies have so many pending claims they cannot estimate damages for another 48 hours."

Commissioner Stewart explained one of the factors preventing reliable estimates is that consumers are encountering difficulties in reporting claims due to power outages and other storm-driven problems.

"The good news is that due to processes implemented before Irene hit Delaware, 542 additional catastrophic adjusters have been licensed within the past week to assist with claims. In addition, my office is continuously receiving updated reports from insurance companies. And the Department's Consumer Services staff will keep extended hours until 8 pm on Wednesday and Thursday this week and next week," Commissioner Stewart said.

Immediately following the storm, Commissioner Stewart visited distressed Delaware homeowners to take a first-hand look at the hardest hit areas and provide direct counsel. Commissioner Stewart was impressed seeing community members assisting one another. Stewart noted that many had taken the recommended steps to photograph and inventory their property prior to the storm and assured them this would expedite the processing of claims.

Commissioner Stewart urges consumers to visit her website at www.DelawareInsurance.gov to find valuable "After the Storm" tips.

 

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Contact:
Elliott Jacobson (302) 674-7303; (202) 294-3266 cell