Homeowners Insurance Claims: What to Know Before Filing
Filing a homeowners insurance claim can be stressful. If you don’t follow the right steps, you might face delays, low payouts, or even denials. Before filing a claim, make sure you understand your policy, gather the right evidence, and take action to protect your rights.
Understanding Your Homeowners Insurance Policy
Before any property damage occurs, it’s crucial to understand your homeowners insurance policy to know what’s covered and what isn’t.
1. What Does Your Policy Cover?
A homeowners insurance policy typically includes:
- Dwelling coverage – Protects the structure of your home.
- Personal property coverage – Covers belongings like furniture and electronics.
- Liability coverage – Helps cover legal expenses if someone is injured on your property.
- Additional living expenses (ALE) – Pays for temporary housing if your home is unlivable after damage.
2. Know Your Policy Limits and Deductibles
- Policy limits – The maximum amount your insurance company will pay for a covered loss.
- Deductibles – The out-of-pocket amount you must pay before insurance coverage kicks in.
3. Understand Exclusions in Your Policy
Some common home insurance exclusions include:
- Flood damage – Typically not covered (requires separate flood insurance).
- Gradual wear and tear – Insurance covers sudden damage, not maintenance issues.
- Earthquakes – Often requires additional coverage.
Steps to Take Before Filing a Homeowners Insurance Claim
If you experience property damage, taking the right steps can make or break your insurance claim.
1. Ensure Safety First
Before anything else, make sure you and your family are safe. If needed, evacuate the property and secure it to prevent further damage.
2. Report the Damage to Your Insurer
Don’t wait—file your homeowners insurance claim as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary delays.
3. Document the Damage with Photos and Videos
- Take clear, time-stamped photos of all damage.
- Record video walkthroughs of the affected areas.
- Do this before making any temporary repairs to preserve evidence.
4. Keep All Receipts and Expenses
Save receipts for emergency repairs, hotel stays, and temporary living expenses. Your home insurance claim may reimburse these costs.
How to Strengthen Your Property Damage Insurance Claim
A well-documented claim increases your chances of getting the full payout you deserve.
1. Create a Home Inventory List
List all damaged or lost items, including:
✔ Age of the item
✔ Purchase price
✔ Estimated replacement cost
2. Provide Proof of Ownership
Use receipts, credit card statements, or old photos to prove ownership of expensive items.
3. Get Repair Estimates from Licensed Contractors
Insurance companies often lowball repair costs—having an independent estimate ensures you receive fair compensation.
Should You Hire a Public Adjuster for Your Insurance Claim?
If your insurance company lowballs your settlement or wrongfully denies your claim, a public adjuster can help.
What Does a Public Adjuster Do?
- Conducts an independent assessment of property damage.
- Negotiates with the insurance company to maximize your payout.
- Handles the paperwork and claim process so you don’t have to.
When to Consider Hiring a Public Adjuster?
✔ Your claim was denied unfairly.
✔ The insurance settlement doesn’t cover your repairs.
✔ You feel overwhelmed with the claims process.
Common Mistakes That Can Cost You Your Insurance Claim
Homeowners often make critical errors when filing an insurance claim. Avoid these:
1. Waiting Too Long to File a Claim
Many policies have strict deadlines for filing a claim. The longer you wait, the harder it is to get approved.
2. Inadequate Documentation
Insufficient photos, videos, and receipts can lead to a low settlement or claim denial.
3. Accepting the First Insurance Offer
Insurance companies often start with a low settlement. Always review the offer and negotiate if necessary.
Final Thoughts on Filing a Homeowners Insurance Claim
Understanding your homeowners insurance policy and properly documenting damage can increase your payout and prevent unnecessary claim denials.
Need Help with Your Insurance Claim?
If your homeowners insurance claim was denied or underpaid, a public adjuster can help fight for what you’re owed.
📞 Contact Paid Fairly for Property Damage Inc. 443-332-8527 today for a free claim review!