How to file a homeowners insurance claim

Yahoo

4 days ago

Your home is more than just four walls — it's your sanctuary and your safe space. So when something like a wildfire or tornado happens, it's normal to feel overwhelmed or even hopeless. Fortunately, that's why you have homeowners insurance. It helps you recover your losses and start rebuilding the place you've worked so hard to make your own.
This embedded content is not available in your region.
Learn more: Homeowners insurance: What it covers and how much you'll pay
Steps to file a homeowners insurance claim
When you're already dealing with an emotionally draining and stressful situation, the last thing you need is confusion around the claim-filing process. Understanding how submitting a claim works beforehand can help you become more prepared and feel confident navigating the claim process if the unexpected happens.
Here are the steps you should follow when filing a home insurance claim.
Step 1: File a police report (if necessary)
If someone breaks into your home, takes your valuables, or causes severe damage, call the police right away and file a report. Make sure to write down the names of any officers you talk to and note the important details of the crime. This information can help back up your insurance claim.
For example, if your home is vandalized and items like your laptop and TV are stolen during a break-in, your insurer will likely ask for the police report to confirm what happened and move your claim forward.
Step 2: Contact your insurance company
Reach out to your insurance company or agent to report what happened right away. You'll want to share information about the incident and verify that the loss is covered under your policy.
If you're covered and decide to file a claim, you can typically do so online, through an app, over the phone, or by mail. If you choose to file by mail, your insurance company will send you the claim forms right away. Make sure to complete them and return them as soon as you can to help avoid any potential delays.
Step 3: Gather supporting documents and media
When disaster happens, documenting the damage may not be the first thing on your mind. However, it's important to document the damage right away — as long as it's safe to do so. Take clear photos and videos of the damage. The more details you provide, the easier it will be for your insurer to understand what happened and process your claim.
Remember that all of the documentation and records you keep will help support your claim, which can help move the process forward more quickly.
Step 4: Make a list of what was lost or damaged
In addition to photos of the damage, go through your home and write down everything that was damaged or destroyed. You'll want to be as detailed as you can. Then make a copy of that list to give to your insurance adjuster. If you have receipts for any of the items, include those since they can help support your claim.
Expert tip: Having a home inventory can simplify this step. Many insurance companies offer digital inventory tools through their apps, so it's worth checking if your insurer does to simplify this step.
Step 5: Take steps to prevent more damage
If your home has fire, smoke, or water damage, it's a good idea to call a restoration company to get help with cleanup ASAP and make sure your home is safe. Depending on the situation, they might board up broken windows, start drying out water damage, or set up air purifiers to clear smoke from the air.
Don't forget: You'll want to check with your insurance company first about what you're allowed to clean up or repair temporarily. That way, you don't tamper with what the adjuster still needs to inspect.
When it comes to repairs, your insurance company may recommend preferred contractors within its network. However, you don't have to follow their recommendation. You're typically allowed to hire your own licensed contractor, which can give you more control over the quality of the work, depending on the details of your policy.
Just keep in mind that your contractor's estimate may be higher than the adjuster's. If that's the case, you'll need to work with both the contractor and your insurance company to resolve the difference and ensure everything is fair and reasonable.
Learn more: How to shop for homeowners insurance
Step 6: Get ready for the adjuster's visit
Your insurance company typically sends an adjuster to inspect the damage. The adjuster works directly for the insurer and helps estimate the cost of repairs to determine an appropriate settlement amount.
The adjuster will carefully walk through your home to inspect the damage and ask questions about what happened. It's best to prepare for their visit in advance so you can point out any damage and share your list of damaged items.
Step 7: Relocate to safety (if needed)
Sometimes, your home may be considered unsafe and uninhabitable after a fire or other major damage. If that's the case, your insurance adjuster or the fire department may recommend that you stay somewhere else while repairs are done.
Many policies include additional living expenses (ALE) coverage, which takes care of expenses like accommodations and meals if your home is unlivable due to a covered event. If you have to live elsewhere, make sure to keep all your receipts for things like hotel stays, meals, and transportation.
Step 8: Collect your payment
After you and your insurance company agree on the settlement amount, they'll typically send the payment within a few days to a few weeks. In some cases, you might receive more than one check, with the first serving as an advance on your total settlement to help with any immediate repairs.
If you have a mortgage, your insurer may issue the check to both you and your lender. That way, the bank can make sure you use the funds to complete the necessary repairs.
Keep in mind: You might not receive the full amount all at once. It's common to receive an initial payment to help you start on repairs and then receive the remaining amount at a later date.
Learn more: Is homeowners insurance required? The answer might surprise you.
Step 9: Advocate for yourself
If you're unclear about any step in the filing process, make sure you speak up and ask questions. It's easy for details to fall through the cracks, especially when managing a large project, so stay proactive to avoid potential delays or mistakes.
When to file a homeowners insurance claim
Just because you can file a home insurance claim doesn't always mean you should. And in some cases, you might not think to file a claim, but you would benefit from it. If you're not sure whether you should file a claim, check with your insurance agent. They can help you make the best decision for your situation, which will protect your coverage in the long run.
But if you're still trying to decide, here are some suggestions as to when you should and when you shouldn't file a claim.
Learn more: How much is homeowners insurance? A guide to lowering costs
How soon should I file a claim?
Homeowners insurance companies generally want you to file a claim as soon as the damage happens. In most cases, you have anywhere from a few months to a year from the date of the incident. That said, the exact amount of time you have to file depends on your policy and your state's laws.
If something happens to your home, you're already dealing with enough stress. Waiting to file a claim can turn a manageable situation into a bigger hassle. Filing your claim promptly can help:
Speed up the claims process
Prevent more damage from happening
Maintain a clear record of what happened
Reduce the risk of delays (or having your claim denied)
Expert tip: Check your policy or call your insurer to find out the specific deadlines that apply to you, so you can stay on top of the process.
Learn more: Actual cash value vs. replacement cost: Understanding the difference in home insurance
Is the damage well above your deductible?
Your deductible is the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. If the cost of repairs is much higher than your deductible, then filing a claim probably makes sense. But if the repair costs are close to or less than your deductible, you might want to cover the expenses yourself.
For example, if your deductible is $2,500 and the damage is $35,000, it's a good idea to file a claim. But on the other side of that: If you incur damages that only total $2,000, you should consider skipping the claim as you won't get paid. Plus, your insurance rates typically go up when you file a claim.
Was the damage caused by poor maintenance?
Home insurance is meant to cover sudden, unexpected damage — not normal wear and tear. If the damage was something preventable (like a leaky roof from years of neglect), your claim could be denied. So, before diving into a claim, make sure it's not something the insurance company would view as your fault.
Have you filed multiple claims in the last few years?
Filing multiple claims in a short time can raise red flags with your insurer. It may lead to higher premiums — or even a cancellation of your policy. Insurance companies track this history using something called a Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (CLUE) report. The information can stay on your record for up to seven years and influence the rate you pay for coverage.
Problems like flooding, earthquakes, or sump pump backups are common exclusions in standard homeowners insurance policies. You typically need separate coverage for these types of events.
So if the issue isn't covered under your policy, filing a claim likely isn't worth the effort.
Up Next
Up Next
Risks of filing a homeowners insurance claim
One of the biggest risks of filing a homeowners insurance claim is that your premium could go up. Insurance companies look at how likely you are to file a claim in the future when setting your rates, so making a claim can make you seem like a higher risk.
For example, your insurer may not raise your rate if something truly unexpected happens, like storm winds knocking a tree onto your roof. But if the damage is seen as preventable, like a kitchen fire caused by unattended cooking, you may notice a jump in your premium.
The three-claim rule: It's also important to know that many insurance companies follow what's called the 'three-claim rule.' If you file three or more claims within five years, they may see you as too high risk to insure at all. That could result in reduced coverage, nonrenewal of your policy, or cancellation.
What NOT to do when filing a home insurance claim
Here are a few things you should avoid when submitting a claim:
Don't wait too long. Failing to notify your insurer immediately or missing the deadline to file a claim can lead to the insurer denying your claim.
Don't let your policy lapse. If your premiums aren't up to date, your claim could be denied, even if the damage is covered under your policy.
Don't assume your policy covers everything. Not understanding the details of your policy and exclusions (like flood or earthquake damage) can leave you vulnerable and may mean you have to pay out of pocket for damages.
Don't skip preventative steps after damage. After a loss, insurance companies expect you to take reasonable action to prevent further damage, such as boarding up broken windows or turning off water to stop a leak. For more severe cleanup or repairs, work with a restoration company.
Don't forget to keep records of everything. You'll need detailed records like photos, videos, and an itemized list of the damage. Vague or incomplete claims are more likely to get delayed or denied.
Learn more: How much homeowners insurance do you need?
Can my homeowners insurance claim get denied?
Homeowners insurance claims get denied more often than you might think. Of the nearly 9 million homeowner claims that were closed in 2023, 37.4% were denied payment, according to Weiss Ratings. In some cases, the denial is pretty straightforward, but in others, it might not be so obvious.
Here are a few common reasons your claim can get denied:
You missed the filing deadline.
You didn't take steps to prevent further damage after the incident.
You haven't kept up with your premium payments.
You filed for something that isn't covered by your policy.
You falsified documents or gave misleading information.
You didn't include enough documentation to back up your claim.
Understanding these reasons can help you avoid filing errors and improve your chances of getting your claim approved.
What to do if your claim is denied
If you believe your claim was wrongfully denied, there are a few steps you can take to try to reverse the decision:
Find out what led to the claim denial. Home insurance companies are required to send a formal letter explaining why they denied your claim based on the details of your policy. If the reason isn't clear-cut or you feel it was denied by mistake, reach out to the claims adjuster (and your agent, if you have one) to gain a better understanding.
File a formal appeal. If you disagree with the claim denial, you can file an official appeal. Just make sure you follow the appeals process closely and include plenty of documentation to support your claim.
Consult with a public insurance adjuster. Insurance companies have their own adjusters who work for them, but you can hire a public adjuster to review your claim and look out for your best interests. They typically charge up to 15% of your insurance payout. However, some may offer a complimentary review to get started.
Hire an attorney with insurance claim experience. If you continue to hit a dead end, but still believe you're entitled to a settlement, your last option might be to speak with an experienced attorney. Make sure they've successfully handled property insurance cases in the past and can provide solid references. Keep in mind, though, you'll usually have to pay out of pocket for legal fees, which can add up quickly.
Report it to your state's insurance department. If your claim isn't being handled fairly and you've kept up with your payments, you can file a formal complaint with your state's Department of Insurance.
Expert advice: Remember that reversing a denial isn't easy, but if your policy supports your case, it's worth speaking up.
How to file an insurance claim FAQs
How long do you have to file a homeowners insurance claim?
How long you have to file a claim depends on your insurance company, your policy, and even the state you live in. But in general, it's best to file as soon as you can. Waiting too long can slow the claims process down — or worse, get your claim denied. Filing right away helps speed things up and gives you a better chance of getting the money you need sooner.
Will a homeowners insurance claim affect my rates?
Yes, your rate may go up, but not always. Whether your rate increases, and by how much, depends on your insurance company. Each home insurer calculates rate changes differently, using factors like the type of claim, how many claims you've filed in the past, and the laws in your state.
So, if you're unsure how a claim may impact your rate, it's a good idea to ask your insurer before filing.
How long does a homeowners insurance claim affect my rates?
Typically, claims stay on your CLUE report for up to seven years. Some insurers, however, may only look at the last three years of your claim history to make this determination. Always ask your insurance company, so you know what to expect.
What documents do I need to file a homeowners insurance claim?
When you file a claim, you'll start by providing some basic information, like your policy number, name, address, and phone number. Insurance companies will also typically ask you to fill out a claim form, which includes attaching supporting documents. That means making a list of everything that was damaged or lost, and taking clear photos and videos of the damage. This step is key, since it helps streamline the claims process and ensure you're right on track.
Jamie Young and Tim Manni edited this article.