RAIN, THUNDERSTORMS AND high winds can leave a trail of destruction, as evidenced in the violent storms experienced in the Las Vegas area, damaging hundreds of homes, businesses and cars.

The Department of Business and Industry, Division of Insurance is available to help Nevadans with questions relating to property damage resulting from those storms and accompanying winds. Persons having any questions about an insurer's handling of a claim or any questions regarding homeowners, mobile home, automobile or business policies, the Division of Insurance stands ready to assist them. The consumer services section is trained to help consumers with their insurance questions or problems.

In addition to coverage for property damage, your property policies may include coverage for debris removal and additional living expenses. Check your insurance policy or contact your agent or your insurance company to discuss what coverage's you have available.

Nevada Insurance Commissioner Alice A. Molasky-Arman cautions homeowners to be aware that special insurance is needed to protect their homes and outbuildings against several special perils—among them, flooding and earthquakes. Neither of those is covered under normal homeowner or tenant policies.

Some guidelines to follow for filing claims include:

• Check your property (house, car, etc.) for damage. Contact your agent or insurer promptly to report damage. Keep a record of the time, date, and name of the person you talk to.
• Make certain your agent has a telephone number to contact you.
• Have your policy number available when reporting the claim.
• Photograph or videotape damaged areas, if possible.
• Make reasonable and necessary repairs to protect your home and property from further damage, but don't make permanent repairs before the damage is inspected by a claims adjuster.
• Take steps to minimize further damage, such as covering holes in windows or roofs to keep water out. Insurers may refuse to pay for subsequent damage from water.
• Keep a record of repair expenses and save all receipts on these temporary repairs to submit for reimbursement.
• Make a list of all personal property destroyed or damaged. It is always wise to keep an inventory of property, with price, place and date of purchase in a safe place. The list can be used when detailing damages.
• Make sure your address is visible from the street. Try to be present when the adjuster inspects your damage.
• Contact the consumer services section at the Division of Insurance to understand what your insurance policy may or may not cover by calling in Las Vegas at (702) 486-4009, or toll free anywhere in Nevada at (800) 992-0900, extension 4270 for Carson City or 4009 for Las Vegas, or by e-mailing the Division at insinfo@doi.state.nv.us.