Being a homeowner can come with many risks. Luckily, homeowners insurance can be a great support system in the event of a disaster. While we hope to never need to, filing a homeowners insurance claim can save you thousands and help to restore your home.
Filing an insurance claim can feel like a hassle. But, there are a few things you can do to prepare yourself and smooth the process.
How to File a Homeowners Insurance Claim
- If your home is broken into, vandalized or burglarized, inform the local police and obtain a copy of the police report. Also, be sure to note the names of all law enforcement members you had contact with.
- If your damage resulted from a disaster, file your claim as soon as possible. The sooner you file, the sooner your claim will be processed. Be sure to file your claim in the allotted time frame your insurance company allows.
- Ask questions.
- Is this disaster covered?
- Does my claim exceed my deductible?
- When will the processing of my claim be complete?
- Will I have to get repair estimates for structural damage?
- Protect your home – and yourself. Take necessary precautions to prevent any further damage from occurring to your home. Submit receipts for these purchases to your insurance company for potential reimbursement.
- Leave the damage as it lies. Do not start removing damage until the adjuster has assessed your home or giving you or your contractor permission via a phone conversation. Taking photos and/or videos can also be useful for further assessment.
- If alternative accommodations are required, keep track of all costs incurred along with those accommodations. Most insurance plans will cover accommodation expenses only if the home is damaged and requires evacuation. If the home is undamaged but evacuation is necessary, those expenses may not be covered by the insurance company.
- Fill out the required forms provided by your insurance company. Upon filing a homeowners insurance claim, the company is required to send the appropriate paperwork within a set time frame.
- More than likely, the insurance company will send the adjuster to inspect your home. While the adjuster cannot validate your claim, the insurance company will often use his report.
Tips to Help Be Prepared
- Be sure to read all the details of your insurance policy. Being aware of the contract details ensures you know what needs to be done on both ends, as the contract provides responsibilities for both you and the insurer.
- Along with understanding your policy, be sure you know what’s covered in your plan. If you are not sure consult your agent first as this will help in determining whether or not to make a claim.
- Don’t file a homeowner’s insurance claim that is smaller than your deductible – it won’t be covered. All claims, including those that are denied typically can impact your insurance premium, so file them wisely.
- Keep a record of your household inventory. Make a list of everything you own and the value of each item – especially the more expensive items. Even if the costs are estimates, it’s good to have when it comes to assessing a fair payout for damages. Taking video without audio is a great way to achieve this.
- Don’t be afraid to negotiate. If your quoted payout seems low, ask for clarification as to why. If you’re still unsatisfied, get an estimate from a restoration professional, or try to discuss your claim with claims management.
- Don’t get scammed. Being in a rush to fix the damage to your home can make you vulnerable. Beware of scamming contractors trying to take advantage and overcharge for the repairs you’re desperate for. Don’t make large deposits, sign anything you’re unsure of, or rush into any decisions. Know your contractor; Trust your contractor. Ask your adjuster, agent, or insurance carrier if they have heard of the contractor you are considering.
The process to repair your home can be tough. Make it easier – contact Bloomfield Construction to get your home back to looking as good as new. Our team has extensive knowledge of working with home owners and insurance companies to ensure repairs are done right, in a timely fashion and within your coverage.
