With anything in life, preparation is key. When it comes to homeowners insurance claims, preparation couldn’t be any more necessary. You’re probably wondering how you could possibly prepare for the unexpected need to make an insurance claim. Below you’ll find out exactly what you need to know to help you prepare and make a successful claim, should anything happen.
Be Prepared—Ensure You Buy the Right Policy
Preparation begins long before disaster hits. The best preparation you could possibly make is by ensuring you have a solid homeowners insurance policy that covers any possible damage due to a natural disaster or damage from theft.
It’s really important that you choose an insurer that is knowledgeable about possible natural disasters that could happen in your area and also an insurer that offers a wide array of coverage options so you can buy the right coverage. This will help you have the best chance of getting your claim covered.
Here is a list of possible disasters that could happen to your home and/or family:
- Storm damage (includes hail, lightning, and damage from high winds and flooding)
- Fire and smoke damage
- Property damage from a break and entry (whether inside or outside your home)
- Loss of valuable items due to theft or natural disasters
- Bodily injuries due to theft
- Possible legal and court costs
- Replacement and repair costs
- Possible medical expenses incurred due to injury caused by a disaster
Be sure to do your homework and don’t just focus on the homeowners insurance cost at first glance. You can get coverage to help cover the above, so be sure to consider all of the coverage options provided by your insurer and read over the policy carefully before adding that specific type of coverage to your policy.
Be Prompt When Filing Your Claim and Be Ready with Details
One of the reasons many claims don’t pay out in a timely manner or pay out the right amount, is due to the lack of prompt reporting paired with the lack of knowing what was damaged or stolen. It is generally recommended that you file a claim within 24-48 hours of filing your police report.
To be as prepared as possible to file your claim, it is essential that you make a list of all of your valuables, both inside and outside your home, and note the cost of each item after putting your policy in place. With an itemized list, you’ll be ready to make your claim right away.
If the disaster was a result of a crime, then be sure to file a police report first so you can provide that file number to the insurance company when asked. Whatever disaster strikes your home, be sure to make a shortlist of what to do and follow it.
Some additional things you can do to help with the claims process are as follows:
- Be patient and responsive
- Ask questions and write down responses
- Document every step and information received
- Save all related documents and repair receipts
- Provide any proof ownership you have (receipts, credit card, or bank statements)
- Take photos or videos of all of the damaged/missing items
- Don’t immediately throw your damaged items away
- Make necessary repairs to ensure safety and protection
The claims process will be slightly different in each state. For example, if you have homeowners insurance in Pennsylvania, you will need to make sure you understand the insurance laws in Pennsylvania as well as the claims process. Following the laws and procedures of your state and insurer will be your best defense against preventing your claim from being denied.
