Managing Additional Modification Expenses in a Temporary Rental
Rebuilding your home after a disaster often requires moving into a temporary rental property. During this transition, you might need to make modifications to your rental to meet the needs that your primary residence previously supported. This includes accessibility modifications, installing necessary amenities like cable and internet, and other personal adjustments.
Here’s a detailed guide to help you manage these additional modification expenses.
Understanding Necessary Modifications
When moving into a temporary rental, consider the modifications your primary residence had and determine which ones are essential for your temporary home: Accessibility Modifications, Communication and Entertainment Services, Safety and Convenience Adjustments
Managing Accessibility Modifications
1. Accessibility Ramps
Temporary Ramps:
Portable Ramps: If you need a ramp for wheelchair access, consider portable ramps. These are easy to install and can be removed when you move out.
Cost: Portable ramps typically range from $100 to $500, depending on length and weight capacity.
Example:
Primary Residence: You had a permanent ramp installed.
Temporary Rental: You purchase a portable ramp for $300 to ensure accessibility.
2. Handles and Grab Bars in Bathrooms
Installing Grab Bars:
Locations: Install grab bars in the Shower, near the Toilet, and any other necessary locations to ensure safety.
Cost: Grab bars typically cost between $20 and $50 each. Professional installation may add $50 to $100 per bar.
Example:
Primary Residence: Your home had built-in grab bars in the bathrooms.
Temporary Rental: You purchase and install three grab bars for $150 in materials and $150 for installation, totaling $300.
3. Widening Doorways
Removable Doorway Expanders:
Usage: Use doorway expanders or offset Hinges to temporarily widen doorways for better accessibility.
Cost: Offset hinges cost about $20 to $30 per set.
Example:
Primary Residence: Doorways were wide enough for wheelchair access.
Temporary Rental: You install three sets of offset hinges for $90 to accommodate wheelchair access.
Managing Communication and Entertainment Services
1. Cable and Internet Installation
Setting Up Services:
Providers: Research local service providers for cable and internet. Choose a plan that suits your needs.
Installation Fees: Providers often charge installation fees ranging from $50 to $100. Look for promotions that may waive these fees.
Example:
Primary Residence: You had an existing cable and internet plan with no installation fee.
Temporary Rental: You set up new services, paying an installation fee of $75 and a monthly cost of $100 for cable and internet.
2. Adjusting TV and Phone Services
Portable Solutions:
Streaming Services: Instead of traditional cable, consider streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime, which may be more cost-effective.
VoIP Phone Services: Use VoIP services like Skype or Google Voice for phone needs instead of setting up a landline.
Example:
Primary Residence: You had a landline and cable TV.
Temporary Rental: You switch to streaming services for $15 per month and use a VoIP service for free, saving on installation costs and monthly fees.
Managing Safety and Convenience Adjustments
1. Security Systems
Temporary Security Solutions:
Portable Systems: Consider portable security systems like Ring or SimpliSafe, which don’t require permanent installation.
Cost: These systems typically cost between $100 and $500, with optional monthly monitoring fees.
Example:
Primary Residence: You had a built-in security system.
Temporary Rental: You purchase a Ring security system for $250 and opt for a $10 monthly monitoring fee.
2. Lighting and Accessibility
Adjusting Lighting:
Smart Bulbs: Use smart bulbs and plugs to control lighting remotely and improve accessibility.
Cost: Smart bulbs cost about $15 to $50 each.
Example:
Primary Residence: You had customized lighting solutions.
Temporary Rental: You purchase five smart bulbs for $25 each, totaling $125.
Filing Insurance Claims for Modification Expenses
1. Documenting Expenses
Receipts and Invoices: Keep detailed records of all modification expenses, including receipts and invoices.
Expense Log: Maintain an organized log of expenses, noting the date, description, and amount for each modification.
2. Submitting Claims
Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurer about the modifications and ask about coverage for these expenses under your ALE (Additional Living Expenses) coverage.
Provide Documentation: Submit your organized expense log and supporting documents to your insurance company.
Loti can help:
If you haven’t heard, this is our wheelhouse.
Follow Up: Stay in regular contact with your insurance representative to ensure your Claim is processed promptly.
Finding Additional Assistance for Modification Expenses
1. Government Assistance Programs
FEMA:
Disaster Assistance: FEMA may provide financial assistance for necessary modifications to ensure accessibility and safety.
Application: Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or call the FEMA helpline.
2. Nonprofit and Charitable Organizations
Rebuilding Together:
Home Modification Assistance: This organization offers free home repairs and modifications for low-income homeowners, including those displaced by disasters.
Contact: Visit Rebuilding Together to find a local affiliate and apply for assistance.
Habitat for Humanity:
Home Repair Programs: Habitat for Humanity may offer assistance with necessary home modifications.
Contact: Reach out to your local Habitat for Humanity affiliate for information on available programs.
Final Tips for Managing Modification Expenses
1. Plan and Budget
Estimate Costs: Research and estimate the costs of necessary modifications in advance to understand your potential expenses and coverage needs.
Get Multiple Quotes: Compare quotes from different service providers and suppliers to find the best rates and services.
2. Keep Detailed Records
Documentation: Maintain meticulous records of all expenses. This includes keeping copies of contracts, receipts, and payment records.
Expense Log: Use a spreadsheet or Loti to track all related expenses, categorizing them for easy reference.
3. Communicate with Your Insurance Company
Ask Questions: Clarify what modification expenses are covered under your ALE coverage.
Regular Updates: Keep your insurance representative informed about your situation and any significant changes.
Wrap-Up
Managing additional modification expenses when moving to a temporary rental involves careful planning, tracking, and documenting your costs. By understanding the differences between your primary residence and rental, and leveraging your insurance coverage, you can ensure your temporary home meets your needs while maintaining financial stability.
Utilize organized expense logs, keep detailed records, and communicate effectively with your insurance company to ensure you receive the support you need during this challenging period.