The saying haste makes waste can be aptly applied when you decide to file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance provider. Filing a claim before you take certain steps often results in delays or denials. The first best way to avoid having that happen is by not filing your claim haphazardly. Here are five steps you can take to can avoid having a delay hold up your claim.

1. Be Prompt

    

   Take a good look at the declarations page of your policy to determine what is covered. Then promptly report your claim. As you work with the insurance company adjuster through the life of the claim, be consistent and quick to respond to any inquiries, but don’t respond before being certain of the information you’re providing. If you feel too much time has passed before hearing back on a question, don’t hesitate to contact the adjuster.

2. Get Organized

    

   Grab yourself a 3-ring binder and organize your paperwork. Set up sections for dwelling loss, contents loss and inventory, loss of use of living space, and miscellaneous expenses. Put all receipts in each section and make sure to include photos that detail any losses. Have a separate section called a claim diary where you can keep detailed notes (names, titles, and phone numbers) of conversations you have with your insurer’s adjuster. Be sure to promptly confirm all verbal conversations or agreements in writing or by email.

3. Secure a Contractor

    

   If your claim arises from a natural disaster that affected a large part of your community, move quickly to secure a qualified, well-known contractor to begin estimating the cost of repairing or rebuilding your home. The sooner you get someone to begin the estimation phase, the sooner you can get your documentation submitted for payment. Doing so will also help you avoid scope of loss disagreements when the insurance company has its contractor inspect your property. 

4. Understand Content Claim Terms

    

   Three terms affect the amount of your claim recovery:

   Depreciation – the loss in value from all causes, including wear and tear.

   Actual Cash Value – the “old” price of an item, or what someone would have paid you for the item immediately before the loss. This is also considered replacement cost minus depreciation.

   Replacement Cost – The “new” price of what it actually costs you to repair or replace a damaged item with like, kind, or quality.

   Most of today’s homeowner policies are replacement cost ones, but to collect the full and fair amount you’re entitled to means you have to actually replace the items and then send the receipts to your insurance company with a demand for payment. Insurers do not volunteer to pay this, you need to insist that they do so.

5. Get Professional Help

    

   If your insurance company adjuster is not adequately responding to your queries, you may decide the claims process is becoming too time-consuming or confusing. At that point hiring a professional to negotiate on your behalf with the insurer could be in your best interest. An experienced and reputable public adjuster can help you avoid a home insurance claim delay and help you get the fair settlement you deserve.                        

   

   While it’s your insurer’s job to restore you financially, it’s up to you to prove your losses. Filing an insurance claim after a major loss can be complicated and overwhelming. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Remember that a public adjuster is your advocate and has no obligation to reduce costs for the insurer, which means you come out ahead both emotionally and financially.

Miller Public Adjusters currently serves the states of
Wisconsin -Florida - Illinois - Indiana - Michigan - Minnesota - Texas

Call us 24 hours a day at (800)958-4829 to schedule an appointment or
please fill out a Free Claim Review to see if we can help.