Following a business disaster, even the savviest owner can be in shock and unable to comprehend how to recover. Having a disaster recovery plan in place before an occurrence can speed up the process and maximize your recovery.
A disaster recovery plan should include:
- Proper Documentation. Photograph and document real and personal property periodically to have evidence of their existence and pre-disaster condition.
- Document Preservation. Multiple copies of insurance policies, property valuations, titles, and other important papers should be stored in safe and accessible locations.
- Contact Information. Contact information for all relevant parties should be maintained in a safe and easily accessible manner.
- Quick Response Team. Have materials and people available and accessible to begin emergency prevention, protection, salvage, and reclamation.
- Be Proactive. Contact all insurers and others as soon as possible with written and dated notices that comply with all notice requirements.
- Early Assessment. Evaluating and presenting claims early, with the opportunity to supplement, may speed responses.
- Collect and Preserve. Preserve all relevant documents, communications, electronic information, and photographs that will be needed for claims and recovery.
- Proof of Loss. While time-consuming, your proof of loss must be as comprehensive and as complete as possible.
- Government Assistance. Do not overlook the opportunity for government relief, grants, and loans to get you through the disaster.
- Professional Help. Independent loss assessors, insurance adjusters, forensic accountants, and other professionals can help when appropriate.
Working with competent and experienced attorneys, accountants, and other professionals can also help maximize any recovery. The attorneys at Brooks, Tarulis & Tibble, LLC can assist you in preparing a disaster relief plan and addressing the consequences of any disaster.
If you have any questions or issues, please contact us.
