If a storm tears off a chunk of your roof or a fire breaks out in the kitchen, your homeowner’s insurance policy should take care of the repair expenses. To ensure you get a fair settlement for the damages, there are a few steps you can take to document it before repairs. Here are a few tips for filing a successful insurance claim.

3 Steps for Filing a Home Insurance Claim

1. Contact Your Agent Immediately

Many homeowners who experience minor issues such as leaking pipes wait days or even weeks before filing a claim. Even if the damage doesn’t seem to be getting worse, call your insurance agent as soon as possible if you plan on making a claim. Otherwise, it might be difficult to prove that the damage was caused by a covered event, and you might be responsible for paying for the expenses if waiting for repairs made the issue worse.

2. Document the Damage

Homeowner’s insurance providers generally recommend not making any repairs until an agent has seen proof of the damage.

If you’re facing an emergency such as a hole in your roof or a broken pipe, take multiple pictures and videos to record the damage before getting them repaired. Having evidence will help your insurer evaluate your claim, ensuring you get a fair settlement.

3. Keep Your Receipts

The standard homeowner’s insurance policy should cover the repairs, any personal possessions damaged in the incident, and other out-of-pocket costs you incur because of the event. If you have to buy plumbing parts, wood, or other materials to supply the repair, or need other accommodations until the construction work is finished, document all of your expenses to provide your insurer.

Providing excellent service to homeowners nationwide since 1928, Farmers Insurance Group is one of the industry’s best and most respected carriers. At our office we strive to help all of our customers protect what matters most, providing the support families need when it’s time to file a claim. Find customer reviews on Facebook, or call (417) 926-7900 or (4147) 257-4274 to request a free homeowner’s insurance quote.