Hurricane Helene - what you can do to support your clients

When the residents of North Carolina woke to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the once vibrant town stood in ruin.

Streets were flooded, homes were destroyed, and businesses were left in tatters. In the words of one local resident, the town had been “absolutely decimated,” reflecting the devastation felt by an entire community.

Natural disasters like Hurricane Helene do more than damage property—they shatter lives and test the resilience of both individuals and economies. In the face of such overwhelming destruction, the path to recovery can seem daunting.

However, for those impacted, finding the right support is crucial. Insurance agents, financial advisors, and community leaders play a pivotal role in helping residents not only rebuild their homes but also restore their financial security and peace of mind.

This article explores the essential steps these professionals can take to guide their clients through the recovery process, offering insight into navigating claims, accessing financial aid, and creating a plan to rebuild stronger than before.

In the aftermath of a disaster like Hurricane Helene, consumers look for several key qualities from their insurance agents and financial advisors. Here’s what clients typically expect:

1. Immediate, Compassionate Communication:

Proactive Outreach: Clients expect their insurance agents or financial advisors to reach out without waiting for them to initiate contact. A prompt, caring check-in can provide reassurance during uncertain times.

Empathy and Understanding: People facing a crisis want to feel heard and understood. They look for agents and advisors who can communicate with compassion and provide emotional support alongside practical advice.

2. Clear Guidance on Coverage and Claims:

Clarity and Transparency: Consumers expect a clear explanation of their insurance policies, including what is and isn’t covered. They want their agents to demystify the fine print, particularly around hurricane or flood coverage, and to explain how deductibles work in these situations.

Help with Claims Process: Clients appreciate step-by-step guidance on how to file insurance claims effectively. They expect agents to walk them through the documentation needed, deadlines, and potential issues they may encounter during the process.

Timely Resolution: Speed is critical. Consumers expect insurance agents and financial advisors to expedite claims and financial assistance, knowing that delays can have serious consequences for their recovery.

3. Reliable Financial Advice and Recovery Strategies:

Financial Stability Advice: Consumers affected by a disaster need advice on how to manage their financial situation during recovery. They expect financial advisors to help them allocate resources wisely—whether through emergency funds, insurance payouts, or accessing disaster relief.

Rebuilding and Future Preparedness: Clients look for advice on how to rebuild their homes or businesses and how to structure their finances to become more resilient to future disasters. This includes recommendations on improving their insurance coverage, saving strategies, or investment shifts to protect their assets in high-risk areas.

4. Tailored, Actionable Solutions:

Customized Advice: Consumers expect solutions tailored to their unique situation. Whether it’s an insurance claim or financial plan, they don’t want one-size-fits-all answers. Instead, they look for personalized strategies that address their specific needs and goals.

Local Knowledge and Expertise: Especially in areas prone to hurricanes, clients appreciate insurance agents and financial advisors who understand the local risks and are familiar with community resources. They value professionals who can recommend the right solutions for their particular circumstances, including local contractors or disaster-relief programs.

5. Expertise and Trustworthiness:

Technical Expertise: Clients expect a high level of knowledge from their advisors and agents about insurance policies, disaster relief, financial planning, and risk management. They want someone who can offer expert advice in a time of need.

Trust and Reliability: Consumers need to trust that their agent or advisor has their best interests at heart. This means being honest, acting with integrity, and showing reliability—keeping promises, returning calls, and following up regularly.

Calm and Reassuring Demeanor: During a stressful event, clients value a calm and reassuring presence. They look for professionals who can offer stability and confidence, making them feel more secure despite the chaos around them.

6. Assistance with Accessing External Resources:

Navigating Relief Programs: In the wake of a disaster, consumers look to their insurance agents and financial advisors to help them access disaster relief funds, government grants, or other support programs. They expect their advisors to be knowledgeable about federal and state aid options (like FEMA) and to help them navigate these processes.

Referral to Other Services: Clients appreciate agents or advisors who can refer them to other needed services, such as legal advice, mental health resources, or community support programs.

7. Long-Term Support and Planning:

Ongoing Support: After the immediate crisis has passed, clients want ongoing support. This includes helping rebuild financial resilience, adjusting insurance policies, and future-proofing their finances.

Disaster Preparedness Advice: As people recover, they look for advice on how to better prepare for future disasters. This may include upgrading insurance coverage, establishing stronger emergency funds, or making home modifications to reduce risk.

Key Takeaways for Professionals:

To meet these expectations, insurance agents and financial advisors need to combine technical expertise with empathy, clear communication, and a proactive approach. By being accessible, compassionate, and knowledgeable, they can have a significant positive impact on their clients’ recovery from events like Hurricane Helene.