Do I still pay rent for the days I was gone? What if my apartment was damaged?

Yes, you’ll need to pay full/normal rent unless you hear otherwise from your landlord or apartment complex office.

Depending on your renters’ insurance policy, though, you may be entitled to some reimbursements, according to Bob Hartwig, insurance expert, economist and consultant for University of South Carolina. Be sure to go over your policy and speak with your insurance provider to be clear on what is available to you and how to follow through with the appropriate steps to make claims.

If you evacuated and your apartment or rented property was damaged while you were gone, or if your apartment was damaged and you stayed but now need to pay for temporary housing or hotel stays in the mean time, you might be reimbursed for your hotel bills, etc., Hartwig said. Again, refer to your specific policy. Either way, be sure to file a claim with your insurer for the damages.

Some policies might include reimbursements for hotel stays during a mandatory evacuation, but those would more than likely be the “higher-end” policies, Hartwig said.

Claims for perishable food losses caused by a power outage can be made, as well, but there is often a $500 to $1,000 deductible before the insurance will cover you, Hartwig said. Refer to your policy or insurance provider to see if that’s an option.

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This story was originally published October 11, 2016 at 12:22 PM with the headline "Do I still pay rent for the days I was gone? What if my apartment was damaged?."