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What it is
Insurance claims processes, FEMA disaster assistance, rebuilding guidance, financial recovery, mental health resources, and step-by-step navigation of the post-disaster recovery process.
A skill is a written procedure a bot loads when a job calls for it. This one is a single file, SKILL.md, and the whole file is on this page.
Length 495 lines3,055 words, about 14 min read
Category Health and wellnesspreventive health
Level Intermediate Give your first job to Murage. Download the app, connect the AI you already pay for, and tell your Chief of Staff what needs doing. Plan on about ten minutes from install to a working team.
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Open source license
Skill Guard health-wellness self-care checklist guide research planning safety emergency-preparedness Paste it into your agent's instructions (CLAUDE.md, AGENTS.md or a custom GPT), or add it to a bot in Murage.
When to Use
User asks about post disaster recovery techniques or best practices
User needs guidance on post disaster recovery concepts
User wants to implement or improve their approach to post disaster recovery
The request falls outside the scope of post disaster recovery
User needs a different specialized skill for their specific situation
The topic requires professional consultation beyond general guidance
Questions to Ask First What type of disaster has affected you (flood, fire, hurricane, tornado, earthquake)?
When did the disaster occur?
Is your home habitable or do you need temporary housing?
Do you have homeowner's/renter's insurance? Flood insurance?
Has a federal disaster declaration been made for your area?
Have you documented the damage already?
Do you have immediate needs (shelter, food, medical, financial)?
Are you physically and emotionally safe right now?
Priority Actions ☐ To do: Ensure your safety - do not enter damaged buildings until cleared
☐ To do: Contact your insurance company to report the loss
☐ To do: Register for FEMA assistance (if federal disaster declared)
☐ To do: Document all damage before cleanup (photos, video, lists)
☐ To do: Keep all receipts for emergency expenses
☐ To do: Secure the property from further damage (tarps, boarding up)
☐ To do: Contact your mortgage company to report damage
☐ To do: Apply for SBA disaster loan (even if you think you may not need it)
☐ To do: Contact employer about work disruption
☐ To do: Ensure children's schools are notified
Documenting Damage Before any cleanup or repairs:
☐ To do: Photograph every room from multiple angles
☐ To do: Photograph exterior damage from all sides
☐ To do: Take close-up photos of specific damage
☐ To do: Video walkthrough of entire property with narration
☐ To do: Photograph contents damage (furniture, electronics, clothing)
☐ To do: Photograph water lines, soot, structural cracks
☐ To do: Save samples of damaged materials if possible
☐ To do: Write detailed notes of damage while memory is fresh
☐ To do: Note date, time, and sequence of events
☐ To do: Get contact information of witnesses if relevant
Create a damage inventory:
ROOM: ________________
Item | Description | Age | Purchase Price | Condition Before | Damage
_____|_____________|_____|_______________|_________________|_______
| | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
STRUCTURAL DAMAGE:
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
PHOTOS TAKEN: Y/N Photo file numbers: _____________
Insurance Claims Process
Filing Your Claim Step 1: Report immediately
Call your insurance company's claims hotline
Have your policy number ready
Describe the damage and provide your current contact information
Ask about your coverage and deductible
Ask about Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage for temporary housing
Get your claim number and adjuster assignment
Ask about the timeline for adjuster visit and payment
Step 2: Understand your policy
☐ To do: Review your policy declarations page
☐ To do: Know your deductible amount(s) - may be different for wind vs. flood
☐ To do: Understand your coverage limits (dwelling, contents, other structures)
☐ To do: Know your Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage limits
☐ To do: Check for any exclusions relevant to your damage type
☐ To do: Note whether you have replacement cost or actual cash value coverage
☐ To do: Check for ordinance or law coverage (code upgrade requirements)
Step 3: Work with the adjuster
Be present for the adjuster's inspection
Walk through all damage with them
Point out damage they may miss (hidden areas, attic, crawlspace)
Provide your documentation (photos, inventory, receipts)
Take notes during the inspection
Ask questions about anything you do not understand
Get a copy of the adjuster's report
Claim Tips Keep detailed records of ALL communication with your insurer
Save every receipt related to the disaster (emergency expenses, temporary housing, repairs)
Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage (this is usually required by your policy)
Keep damaged items until the adjuster has seen them
Get multiple repair estimates
Review the claim settlement carefully before accepting
Ask about additional payments if you discover hidden damage later
Do not accept the first settlement offer without reviewing it carefully
Do not discard damaged items before the adjuster documents them
Do not sign a final release until you are sure all damage has been assessed
Do not hire contractors who demand full payment upfront
Do not make permanent repairs before your claim is settled (unless approved)
If You Disagree with Your Claim Escalation options (in order):
Discuss concerns with your adjuster and provide additional documentation
Request a re-inspection or second adjuster
Hire a public adjuster (works for you, not the insurance company, typically takes 10-15% of settlement)
Use your policy's appraisal clause if there is a disagreement on value
File a complaint with your state's Department of Insurance
Consult an attorney specializing in insurance disputes
Contact your state's disaster recovery legal services (often free after declared disasters)
Flood Insurance Specifics Standard homeowner's insurance does NOT cover flood damage
Flood insurance is a separate policy (National Flood Insurance Program or private)
File flood claims separately from homeowner's claims
Advance payments may be available for documented damage
NFIP claims have a 60-day proof of loss filing requirement
Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) coverage may help with rebuilding to code
FEMA Disaster Assistance
How to Apply Online: DisasterAssistance.gov
Phone: 1-800-621-3362 (FEMA helpline)
In person: Disaster Recovery Centers (locations announced after declarations)
Mobile app: FEMA app
Information you will need:
Social Security number
Address of damaged property
Current contact information
Insurance information
Description of damage and losses
Bank account information (for direct deposit of assistance)
Types of FEMA Assistance Program What It Covers Notes Housing Assistance Temporary housing, home repair, replacement Based on need, not replacement value Other Needs Assistance (ONA) Medical, dental, funeral, personal property, transportation, other Receipts and documentation required Temporary housing Rental assistance or temporary housing unit Time-limited, renewable SBA Disaster Loans Home repair, business recovery, personal property Low-interest loans, requires application Crisis Counseling Free mental health support Available in declared disaster areas Disaster Unemployment Temporary unemployment benefits For those who lost work due to disaster Legal Services Free legal help for disaster-related issues Through disaster legal services programs
FEMA Process Timeline Register : As soon as possible after disaster declaration
Inspection : FEMA inspector visits to verify damage (1-2 weeks typically)
Decision letter : Receive determination of eligibility and amount
Payment : Direct deposit or check (can be within days of decision)
Appeal : If denied or amount is insufficient, appeal within 60 days
SBA referral : FEMA may refer you to SBA for additional assistance
Appealing a FEMA Decision You have 60 days from the decision letter to appeal
Write a detailed appeal letter explaining why you disagree
Include new documentation, repair estimates, or evidence
Send by mail or fax (keep copies and delivery confirmation)
You can appeal multiple times with new information
Free disaster legal services can help with appeals
Important: FEMA and Insurance FEMA does not duplicate insurance coverage
If you have insurance, you must file a claim first
FEMA may provide assistance for losses not covered by insurance
You must provide insurance settlement information to FEMA
If you receive FEMA funds for something insurance later covers, you must repay FEMA
SBA Disaster Loans
Overview Low-interest loans for homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofits
Home loans up to $500,000 for real estate repair/replacement
Personal property loans up to $100,000
Business loans up to $2 million
Interest rates are below market (typically 2-8%)
Repayment terms up to 30 years
Declining the SBA loan may limit access to other FEMA programs
Application Process ☐ To do: Apply online at sba.gov/disaster or at a Disaster Recovery Center
☐ To do: Complete the application with damage and financial information
☐ To do: SBA inspector will verify damage
☐ To do: Provide requested financial documentation
☐ To do: Review loan offer carefully (you can accept partial amounts)
☐ To do: Understand repayment terms before accepting
☐ To do: You are not obligated to accept the loan
Rebuilding and Repair
Before You Start Repairs ☐ To do: Confirm insurance claim is progressing
☐ To do: Check with local building department about permits
☐ To do: Understand new building code requirements (may differ from original construction)
☐ To do: Research contractor options thoroughly
☐ To do: Do not rush into contracts under pressure
Hiring Contractors ☐ To do: Verify state and local licensing
☐ To do: Confirm insurance (general liability and workers' compensation)
☐ To do: Check references (call them)
☐ To do: Verify with Better Business Bureau or state contractor board
☐ To do: Get at least 3 written estimates
☐ To do: Ask about their experience with disaster recovery work
☐ To do: Check for complaints or disciplinary actions
☐ To do: Detailed scope of work in writing
☐ To do: ☐ To do: Payment schedule tied to milestones (not just dates)
☐ To do: Start date and estimated completion date
☐ To do: ☐ To do: Permit responsibilities specified
☐ To do: Change order process defined
☐ To do: Demands full payment upfront
Only accepts cash
No written contract
Pressures you to decide immediately
No verifiable license or insurance
Cannot provide references
Offers to waive your deductible (insurance fraud)
Approaches you unsolicited door-to-door after disaster
Building Back Better Consider upgrading to current building codes (may be required)
Evaluate mitigation improvements (storm shutters, roof straps, elevation)
Use disaster-resistant materials where possible
Improve energy efficiency during reconstruction
Address pre-existing issues while walls are open
Check for FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding
Consult with your insurance about mitigation discounts
Financial Recovery
☐ To do: Contact your bank about mortgage forbearance options
☐ To do: Contact credit card companies about disaster hardship programs
☐ To do: Contact student loan servicers about deferment
☐ To do: Apply for utility payment assistance
☐ To do: Explore disaster-related tax deductions (casualty loss)
☐ To do: Contact employer about disaster leave, pay advances, or assistance programs
☐ To do: Visit a Disaster Recovery Center for information on all available programs
Financial Recovery Resources Resource What It Offers FEMA assistance Grants for housing and other needs (not repaid) SBA disaster loans Low-interest loans for repair and replacement Red Cross Emergency financial assistance Salvation Army Emergency financial assistance United Way 211 Referrals to local assistance programs State disaster relief funds Varies by state Community foundations Local disaster relief grants Faith-based organizations Financial and material assistance Employer assistance programs Company disaster relief funds
Organizing Recovery Paperwork Create a recovery file with these sections:
Insurance : Policy, claim number, correspondence, adjuster reports, settlement documents
FEMA : Registration number, decision letters, appeal documents
SBA : Application, correspondence, loan documents
Financial : Bank statements, mortgage correspondence, forbearance agreements
Contractors : Estimates, contracts, invoices, receipts, warranties
Receipts : All disaster-related expenses (chronological)
Photos : Before and after documentation
Correspondence : All letters, emails, and call logs
Mental Health and Emotional Recovery
Normal Reactions to Disaster Common reactions that typically improve with time:
Shock, disbelief, numbness
Anxiety, fear, worry about the future
Anger, irritability, frustration
Sadness, grief, crying
Difficulty sleeping or nightmares
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Loss of appetite or overeating
Physical symptoms (headaches, stomachaches, fatigue)
Withdrawal from social activities
Guilt (survivor's guilt, feeling you should have done more)
These are normal reactions to abnormal events.
Self-Care During Recovery Maintain routines as much as possible
Get adequate sleep (even when it is difficult)
Eat regular, nutritious meals
Stay physically active
Limit alcohol and avoid substance use as coping
Stay connected with supportive people
Take breaks from disaster-related tasks
Limit media exposure to disaster coverage
Accept help when offered
Be patient with yourself and others
When to Seek Professional Help Seek help if, after several weeks:
Symptoms are not improving or are getting worse
You cannot function in daily activities
You are having thoughts of self-harm
Substance use is increasing
Relationships are deteriorating
You feel persistently hopeless
Intrusive memories or nightmares are overwhelming
You are unable to care for yourself or dependents
Mental Health Resources SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline : 1-800-985-5990 (24/7, multilingual)
Crisis Text Line : Text HOME to 741741
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline : Call or text 988
FEMA Crisis Counseling Program : Free counseling in declared disaster areas
Red Cross disaster mental health : Available at shelters and service centers
Local community mental health centers : Often offer disaster-related services
Employee Assistance Programs : If employed, check for EAP benefits
Supporting Children After Disaster Reassure them that they are safe
Maintain routines (meals, bedtime, school if possible)
Allow them to talk about their feelings
Answer questions honestly in age-appropriate language
Limit their exposure to disaster media
Let them help with recovery in small, appropriate ways
Watch for behavioral changes (regression, clinginess, aggression, withdrawal)
Consult school counselors or pediatrician if concerns persist
Model healthy coping for children
Recovery Timeline Expectations Week 1-2 : Emergency phase - safety, documentation, filing claims Month 1-3 : Assessment phase - adjusters, inspections, planning, temporary housing Month 3-6 : Repair/rebuild phase - contractor work, ongoing claims Month 6-12 : Stabilization - returning to normalcy, completing repairs Year 1-2 : Full recovery - financial stabilization, emotional processing Year 2+ : New normal - community rebuilding, long-term resilience planning
Recovery is not linear. Setbacks are normal. Be patient with the process.
Recovery Tracking Checklist INSURANCE:
[ ] Claim filed Date: _______
[ ] Adjuster visit Date: _______
[ ] Estimate received Date: _______
[ ] Settlement offered Date: _______
[ ] Settlement accepted Date: _______
[ ] Payment received Date: _______ Amount: $_______
FEMA:
[ ] Registered Date: _______ Registration #: _______
[ ] Inspection completed Date: _______
[ ] Decision letter Date: _______
[ ] Assistance received Date: _______ Amount: $_______
[ ] Appeal filed (if needed) Date: _______
SBA:
[ ] Application submitted Date: _______
[ ] Inspection completed Date: _______
[ ] Loan offer received Date: _______
[ ] Loan accepted/declined Date: _______
REPAIRS:
[ ] Building permits Date: _______
[ ] Contractor hired Date: _______
[ ] Work started Date: _______
[ ] Milestones completed Dates: _______
[ ] Final inspection Date: _______
[ ] Certificate of occupancy Date: _______
FINANCIAL:
[ ] Mortgage forbearance Date: _______
[ ] Utility assistance Date: _______
[ ] Tax deduction documented Date: _______
Process Gather information. Ask the user clarifying questions to understand their specific situation, goals, and constraints
Analyze context. Review the information provided and identify key factors relevant to post disaster recovery
Develop recommendations. Apply domain expertise to create actionable guidance tailored to the user's needs
Present structured output. Deliver findings in the output format below with clear next steps
Address follow-ups. Answer additional questions and refine recommendations based on feedback
template ## Post Disaster Recovery Analysis
### Assessment
[Key findings and observations]
### Recommendations
1. [Primary recommendation]
2. [Secondary recommendation]
3. [Additional suggestions]
### Action Items
- [ ] [First action step]
- [ ] [Second action step]
- [ ] [Follow-up task]
Edge Cases Incomplete information: Ask clarifying questions before proceeding with recommendations
Conflicting requirements: Prioritize the most critical constraint and note trade-offs
Out of scope requests: Redirect to appropriate specialized skill or professional resource
Beginner vs advanced: Adjust depth and terminology based on user's experience level
Example Input: "Help me with post disaster recovery for my current situation"
Based on your situation, here is a structured approach to post disaster recovery:
Assessment: Evaluate your current state and identify key areas for improvement
Strategy: Develop a targeted plan based on best practices
Implementation: Execute the plan with specific, measurable steps
Review: Monitor progress and adjust as needed
SKILL.md
495 lines · 3,055 words
The text of SKILL.md is shown as it downloads, under the Apache-2.0 license, by Ferrox Labs. The license is the one in the file's own frontmatter.
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