A Guide for Filing a Home Insurance Claim

Is your home, what may be your most valuable asset, adequately protected? Many scenarios may cause you to file a claim, such as if your home has been struck by a violent storm or a burglar breaks in. There are certain rules and procedures that you will have to adhere to for a successful outcome. You and your insurance agent can work together to determine how to go about your claim in hopes of a smooth process. Here is a breakdown of the steps involved in filing a home insurance claim.

Report Illegal Activity

For those who fall victim to theft or vandalism at your home, it is important to report it to the police immediately. Along with the official police report, be sure to write down all the names of the law enforcement officers that you speak with, as these details may be needed to move forward with the claim.

Call Your Insurer

Contact your insurer as soon as possible to go over the following:

• Whether you are covered or not
• How long you have to file a claim
• If it will exceed your deductibles (When loss is lower than your deductible, it may not be best to file a claim)
• How long the process will take
• Damage repair estimates

Fill Out Forms

If you decide to make a claim, your insurer will send you the necessary documents to complete. You will then be legally required to send these within a specified period and expected to return the forms promptly and properly filled out.

Damage Inspection

Generally, the insurer will then have an adjuster interview you and inspect your home's property damage to determine the insurance company's amount to pay for the loss. Be prepared to show the adjuster all structural damage and have a list of damaged items ready.

Temporary Repairs

Be sure to get plenty of photos and videos of the damage, then take the measures to protect your property from further damage. Avoid throwing out damaged items until the adjuster has had a chance to see them in person. Save receipts for the damage associated with expenses to be reimbursed for them hopefully.

If Relocation is Necessary

If your home has been so damaged that you are forced to find other living accommodations while repairs are being made, keep receipts and records of all additional expenses incurred. Additional living expenses may be covered in such cases, but you will need to provide proof of the costs.

Ask all the Questions

If you have any questions while filing the claim or about claim filing laws, it is up to you to be forthcoming. Do not hesitate to ask your homeowner's insurance agent any questions through the process so that you can be fully equipped with the information you may want and need.

About David G. Sayles Insurance Services

At David G. Sayles Insurance Services, we help our clients decide which of these options is best for them based on their current situation and risk factors.  Contact us at 1-855-977-1842 or insureme@dsayles.mysites.io for a consultation!