No one wants to imagine the worst happening to their home, but accidents and disasters can happen. That’s why having home insurance is important – it provides financial protection against unexpected events. If you do experience damage to your home, it’s important to know how to file a home insurance claim to get the coverage you need. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Have A Roofing Contractor Assess the Damage
The first thing you should do is contact an experienced roofing contractor to assess the damage to your property. They should take photos or videos of the damage and make a list of any damaged items. This documentation will be useful when filing your claim.
Step 2: Review Your Policy
Before filing a claim, review your home insurance policy to ensure that the damage is covered. It’s important to understand your policy limits and any exclusions.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and file a claim once your contractor is in agreement that filing a claim is the best choice. Be prepared to provide your policy number, and a description of the damage. Do not say wind or hail – say storm damage. That will be determined at the time of the inspection.
Step 4: Meet with the Adjuster
After filing a claim, your insurance company will assign an adjuster to assess the damage to your property. The adjuster will schedule an appointment with you and your contractor of choice to inspect your property and review your documentation.
Step 5: Receive an Estimate
After the adjuster has assessed the damage, they will provide an estimate for the cost of repairs or replacement. This estimate will be used to determine the amount of your insurance payout. Your contractor of choice will review your adjusters report and will determine what, if any, supplements need to be submitted to the insurance company for missed items or code items.
Step 6: Make Repairs
Once you’ve received your insurance payout, you can begin the necessary repairs to your property. Your contractor of choice will submit a final invoice on your behalf to the insurance company to get depreciation funds released.
Filing a home insurance claim can be a complex process, but by following these steps, you can ensure that you receive the coverage you need. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us for guidance.