7 Steps to Filing a Homeowners Insurance Claim

A survey of homeowners showed that only 52 percent of the respondents stated they had an inventory of their possessions ready for their insurer in the event of a claim. Most people would struggle to remember everything of value they owned on an average day. The ability to remember details could suffer even more immediately following a crisis.

Take a video inventory before any need for a claim arises, and store the video digitally in the cloud for safety. Create a written list too, and keep it in a fireproof safe with any available receipts. Update the list and the video after new items come into the home. A pre-written inventory can save people a lot of frustration during a claim, and they can prevent omissions that reduce the claim amount.

Get out of a damaged home and do not reenter it for any reason unless you have the assurance of an expert it is safe. A roof could continue to collapse after a tree falls. Electrocution in a flooded basement can happen until an electrician removes the meter. Fires can damage structural supports and cause floors to become too weak to walk across. Stay away to avoid any additional tragedies.

Contact 911 to report the event. The emergency dispatcher can contact utility companies to disconnect power or gas lines to secure the scene. People in shock after a disaster may not realize they have injuries. Have medical personnel available to examine anyone involved.

Call the insurer to report the incident and start a claim. Representatives can schedule an adjuster and explain the information they will need. A fire or police report, an inventory list, contact information, and photographs are some items the insurer needs. The company will have claim forms for you to complete that could include paper documents or an online claim form.

Photograph the damage once the immediate risks have subsided. Try to take the photographs in daylight, and capture as much detail as possible. Do not take any risks with your health to get closer to the scene.

Drone operators can often get much closer to dangerous areas with no human risk but can only do so after emergency teams leave the scene. The FAA (Federal Aviation Association) can fine drone users up to $20,000 if they disrupt an emergency response. The potential for interruption is more common if the response requires some form of aviation, but any distraction could cause concern.

Have a contractor come in to cover broken windows or holes in the roof. Make certain to turn off the water to prevent further damage from water leaks. Secure valuables in a garage or shed if you cannot lock up the home. The insurer may not cover additional damage if you do not take any steps to protect your property.

7. Keep Detailed Notes

You need to stay organized after a claim. Record the names of the insurance representatives you talk to and the date of the conversation. Keep a copy of all paperwork you complete and any received documents including repair quotes. Also, track any money spent on temporary lodging because some policies cover this expense.

Homeowners insurance is a unique product because people purchase a policy and hope they will never have to use it. A relationship with the right insurer makes everything easier if a time ever arrives when you need to file a claim. At Illinois Insurance Center, we offer insurers with fast and reliable claims processes. Contact us for a free quote today.