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From fires to vandalism, many unexpected events can cause serious damage to your home, resulting in high repair expenses. Fortunately, homeowners insurance is designed to help protect you from incurring the high costs associated with these incidents. But before you can receive the funds you need, you’ll need to file a claim with your insurance provider. Here are a few basic steps to follow to ensure that your claim is filed in an accurate and timely fashion.

Ways to Navigate the Home Insurance Claim Process Properly

1. Call the Authorities & Your Insurance Agency

If you suspect that the damage is due to criminal activity—such as arson, break-ins, or vandalism—call the police immediately so they can file a report.

Whether or not the event was crime-related, you’ll also need to call your insurance agency. A skilled agent will guide you through the filing process, starting by sending you a series of forms that you must fill out.

2. Document the Damage & Fill Out Forms

Take photos of the initial damage. This evidence will help support your claim, especially if you end up needing to make temporary repairs in the meantime.

Include photographic evidence with your completed claim forms. The faster you’re able to complete these documents, the sooner your claim will be processed.

3. Keep Receipts

homeowners insuranceSave receipts for any out-of-pocket purchases you make concerning your claim. These purchases may include materials used for temporary repairs and hotel fees if you can’t continue to safely reside in your home. Your insurance provider will likely reimburse many of these expenses once your claim is approved.

4. Get an Adjuster Inspection

Your homeowners insurance provider will arrange for an adjuster to carefully evaluate and document all areas of damage that may apply to your claim. While these professionals are trained to look for specific issues, it’s important to introduce them to problems that aren’t necessarily visible.  

5. Choose a Contractor & Finalize the Scope of Repair

Select a contractor that is licensed, insured, available to complete the work, and experienced with the problems at hand. If you’re unsure of who to hire, your insurance company can provide recommendations.

After you’ve selected a provider, your contractor will communicate with the insurance company to develop a scope of repair. This document should detail the specific work being done to your home and their estimated costs.

 

When it comes to protecting your property, Kalita Agency offers the personalized assistance you need to develop a reliable homeowners insurance policy. Serving the Litchfield County, CT, community, this company is known for creating policies that adequately address all risks, while aiming to keep premiums low. If an incident does occur, you can count on these compassionate agents to provide support through every step of the claims process. To learn more about their custom insurance policy options, visit this independent agency online. For an insurance quote, call (860) 274-8882.

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