Proper Timeline When Filing a Property Damage Insurance Claim

It’s devastating for homeowners to suffer a major property loss. And it’s perfectly natural to feel overwhelmed and at a loss as to what to do next. But time is of the essence for filing a claim with your insurance company, as there are deadlines that must be met if you hope to be reimbursed. If this is your family’s first experience with a large claim, keep in mind that the process is basically a business negotiation.

• Contact Your Insurance Company ASAP

All homeowner’s policies have deadlines by which you must file your written estimate of damages and formal claims. Rules and regulations vary from state to state, so check your policy. In the meantime, give notice of damages, which puts your insurance company on notice. You can do this by phone, but keep in mind that anything you say at this time could be used to deny all or part of your claim.

• Request Advance Assistance

If you’re forced to leave your home, it’s likely you did not have time to take the essentials with you. Don’t panic. Call your insurance company and ask for an advance against your ultimate property damage insurance claim. The advance will be deducted from your total reimbursement, but it can be a short-term lifesaver.

• Make a List

Start creating a list as soon as possible. Do not throw anything away, even items you believe are damaged beyond repair. The insurer’s adjuster or your own public adjuster will want to see these things so they can be included in your claim.

• File your Claim

Your policy will dictate when your claim must be filed. Do this as soon as feasible. You will need to file a “proof of loss of claim,” on which you spell out the details of your loss, including value and other pertinent information.

• Secure your Property

Take proactive measures to prevent further damage. For example, cover holes in walls or the roof, board up fences, and move undamaged property out of harm’s way.

• Track Living Expenses

Your policy’s “loss of use” clause means the insurer will reimburse you for living expenses if you are displaced from your home. Keep careful records and avoid frivolous charges.

• Gather Repair Estimates and Receipts

Insurers require an estimate of the fair market value or cost of replacement of damaged property. Be sure to have estimates from reputable companies to present to your insurer.

• Keep Paying Premiums

Your policy includes other protections besides damage loss, such as liability protection, so remember to continue making your payments. And don’t worry about losing your coverage. As long as you file legitimate claims and continue to make your payment, you will not lose your coverage.

Experts agree there are times when you should not file a claim, such as when your deductible is larger than your claim. Dealing with your insurance company after a major loss is a complicated process involving phone calls, emails, letters, meetings and reams of documentation. You may want to consider hiring a public adjuster to assist with your claim. It may be the best decision you make during an emotional and stressful process.

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.