property damage insurance claims process

1.) Consider hiring an experienced insurance attorney to assist you with the procedure.

Your insurance company will appoint an adjuster to manage your case after you file a property damage claim. The assumption that the insurance company's adjuster is looking out for your best interests is a typical policyholder misconception. On the contrary, the insurance company's adjuster is looking out for the insurance company's best interests. You have the right to hire your own team of experts to assist you with the claims procedure, such as a highly experienced attorney. Property damage claims for homeowners are complicated, time-consuming, and difficult to prove if you are unfamiliar with your insurance policy, lingo, and industry.

2.) Contact your homeowner's insurance carrier and inform them of the situation (or let your attorney do it for you)

Your insurance policy contract requires you to notify them as soon as possible if you have a property damage claim. Failure to do so within the time frame specified in your contract could result in your claim being denied. It's vital to keep in mind that even if you have to abandon your home, you must inform your insurance carrier as quickly as possible. This can be done over the phone or online, depending on your insurance company.

The claims process will begin once you have notified your insurance company. This is a lengthy, in-depth procedure that will necessitate meticulous attention to detail as well as ample time and preparation on your part. Initial contact with the insurance company, claim evaluation, discussions, and resolution/settlement are all part of the claims process.

You'll need the following information for the first phase of the process:

Policy Number and Address

The claim's kind (winter storm, hurricane, flood, fire, etc.)

Damage to your home and personal belongings (description)

3.) Keep the premises and property safe.

By safeguarding your home and the premises, you can prevent further damage to your property and the chance of a third party becoming wounded on-site. As the policyholder, it is your contractual responsibility to mitigate extra damages during a calamity. View our article, "Preserving and Protecting Your Damaged Property: What Are Your Responsibilities?" for a more detailed description of your responsibilities.

Common Home Insurance Claim Mistakes

While there are many things you should do to substantiate your claim and secure a fair settlement, there are also many things you should avoid doing, including:

1.) Do not start repairing anything until the insurance company has approved it.

Before making any alterations to your house, you and your insurance carrier should discuss and agree on the necessary repairs and their costs. Note that all discussions and agreements should be written down rather than verbal.

2.) Get rid of everything.

This includes receipts, broken objects, and personal items, among other things. These are the goods you'll need to support your claim to the insurance company. Dispose of them only after they've been properly documented.

3.) Assume you'll have to work with the insurer's vendors.

You have the right to hire your own professionals, including contractors, public adjusters, engineers, and others, whether the insurance company's adjuster or a contracting company they propose. In most cases, it is in your best interests to do so.