Homeowner's Insurance – Tips And Tricks for Making Claims

The process of filing claims can be confusing and tricky so here are some tips to help you to go through this process:

- Inform your insurance company or agent about your loss at once because the company will then be able to start the necessary process to manage your claim. Depending on cases, minor claims are usually managed and settled directly by your agent. Ask for the name and contact information for the person in the adjusting department who will help you with your claim when you talk to your agent.

- If there is a need for emergency repairs, get a list of approved companies which are authorized for your property’s emergency repairs from your insurance company. Depending on cases, the repair bills may be billed directly to your homeowner’s insurance company. For this type of repair, it is important for you to get the essential paperwork.

- Document the damage to your property systematically. Take photos and videos of the damage. You should also write down the event which caused the damage and present the information to insurance adjuster. Try to have items which show the value of damaged property ready, such as receipts. Witness accounts, police reports or fire departments reports would be helpful too.

- All the contact you have with insurance company should be documented as detailed as you can. You should get the names and contact information from everyone you talk to about your claim. The documented conversations with your insurance company can be helpful if there are conflicts later.

- You should be present when your property is being inspected by insurance adjuster in order to be able to inform the adjuster on damage which he may miss and to pay attention to the adjuster’s actions and comments.

- Only agree to your insurance company’s final settlement if you are satisfied that it is fair. If you think it is essential, get a few more opinions from a local contractor. If you think you are being taken advantage of by your insurance company, go to your state department of insurance.

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