The idea behind the coverage
Additional living expense, often called ALE or loss of use, generally pays the difference between what you normally spend to live and what you spend while displaced. If you normally cook at home and now eat out, the extra cost of meals may count, but not the full restaurant bill. If you now drive farther to work or school from temporary housing in Broomfield or Thornton, the extra miles may count.
Because the coverage is based on the increase, adjusters often ask about normal spending as well as the new expenses. Keeping both sides in the same log saves a round of questions.
Log categories
| Category | What to record | Typical proof |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary housing | Rental, hotel or extended-stay costs and dates | Lease, folio or receipts |
| Utilities at temporary housing | Set-up and monthly charges | Bills |
| Meals | Extra food costs above normal grocery spending | Receipts; a note of usual weekly grocery spending |
| Mileage | Extra miles to work, school or the job site | Dated mileage log with start and end points |
| Laundry | Laundromat costs if you normally wash at home | Receipts |
| Storage | Storage for undamaged or cleaned belongings | Storage invoices |
| Moving | Moving to and from temporary housing | Invoices |
| Other | Furniture rental, internet set-up, parking | Receipts and a short explanation |
A rhythm that works
- Day one
- Ask the adjuster what ALE limits apply, whether there is a time limit, and how they want receipts submitted.
- Each week
- Photograph receipts and enter them in the log. Note anything unusual.
- Each month
- Submit the month's log and receipts, and keep a copy of what you sent.
- When the rebuild slips
- Tell the adjuster as soon as you know, with the reason, and ask how an extension is handled.
- Move-back week
- Submit final moving costs and close out temporary housing.
Common questions
Can I stay with family and still claim anything?
Possibly. Some insurers reimburse reasonable costs of staying with relatives, such as added groceries or utilities, or extra mileage. Ask your adjuster before assuming either way, and log the costs regardless.
What if temporary housing is far from school or work?
Record the extra mileage from day one. If the commute becomes a real hardship, tell your adjuster and ask whether closer housing is an option within your coverage.
General information for Westminster, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.