Dwellers purchase rental insurance to keep their property and belongings protected from unanticipated damage. However, you may not know how to file a claim after an incident. Follow these steps to ensure the recovery process is as smooth as possible.

How to File a Claim

1. Assess the Damage

Most insurance providers only approve claims if the damage amount is greater than the policy’s deductible. While assessing the property, don’t throw away any damaged belongings until the insurance company sends somebody over to examine your losses. Check for broken windows and door locks if your home was affected by severe weather, like windstorms or hail.

2. Report the Situation

Get in touch with your landlord and, if applicable, the police to report what happened. Most leases require tenants to inform management of damage to coordinate repairs and alert other tenants of possible malicious activity.

If property loss or damage was the result of vandalism or theft, file a police report. This documentation is required to file a claim with the rental insurance company and aids with your agent’s investigation.

3. Document the Losses

Compile all the paperwork needed to start a claim. Aside from expenses you’ve incurred to fix the interior, an inventory of lost or damaged personal items is an essential piece of evidence. Copies of their receipts and purchase dates and photo or video evidence of their damage will help your provider assess their value at the time of the incident.

4. Contact Your Provider

Reach out to your insurance representative once you’ve compiled the documentation. Most claims must be filed between 48 to 72 hours after an incident has occurred. However, you can revise the claim if you need to include updates from an ongoing situation, like a police investigation or a lawsuit.

Safeguard your belongings with help from Pella Mutual Insurance Company in Marion, WI. Since 1876, they’ve served residents across Northeast Wisconsin with affordable home, farm, and rental insurance. For a full list of products and services, visit their website, or call (715) 754-5039 to discuss coverage options.