State Insurance Commissioner Ralph Hudgens is offering tips to help Georgians file claims associated with the storm system that tore through the state Wednesday.

Hudgens says homeowners who notice damage to their house or car should call their insurance company immediately and keep accurate records and receipts for any maintenance, repairs or temporary living arrangements until they have been reviewed by an insurance adjustor.

Consumers are urged to avoid paying for services up front, and are encouraged to use checks or credit cards — not cash — to pay deposits for contracting work. Hudgens says consumers should pay the full amount for contracting work only after it has been completed to the customer's satisfaction.

Hudgens says consumers should remove valuables from damaged homes and work only with licensed contractors.

Tags: insurance, Georgia weather, tornado, severe weather, severe storms, Ralph Hudgens