Filing a home insurance claim can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with damage, stress, and uncertainty. But knowing what to do — and what to avoid — can help you navigate the process smoothly, protect your rights, and maximize your payout.
This guide walks you through each step of filing a home insurance claim successfully, from the moment you discover damage to the final settlement.
Step 1: Make Sure Everyone Is Safe
Before anything else, ensure the safety of your household.
• Check for hazards such as fire, flooding, electrical issues, or structural instability
• Evacuate if necessary
• Call emergency services in dangerous situations
You can address insurance details once your home is safe.
Step 2: Document the Damage Immediately
Detailed documentation is one of the most important parts of a successful claim.
• Take clear photos and videos of all affected areas
• Capture both close-up and wide-angle shots
• Document any damaged belongings
• Keep receipts for temporary repairs or emergency purchases
The more evidence you provide, the stronger your claim will be.
Step 3: Prevent Further Damage
Homeowners are required to take reasonable steps to prevent damage from getting worse.
• Cover broken windows
• Shut off water if there’s a leak
• Use tarps on damaged roofs
• Move unharmed belongings to a safe area
Keep receipts — insurers often reimburse temporary repairs.
Step 4: Review Your Policy
Before filing, check your policy to understand:
• What’s covered (perils like fire, theft, windstorms)
• What’s excluded (flood, earthquakes, neglect)
• Your deductible
• Coverage limits for structure and personal property
• Additional living expense (ALE) benefits
Understanding your policy helps you set realistic expectations.
Step 5: Contact Your Insurance Company
Report the claim as soon as possible — most insurers have 24/7 hotlines. Provide:
• Your policy number
• Date and type of damage
• A brief description of what happened
• Photos and videos if available
• Emergency repair receipts
Prompt reporting helps prevent delays.
Step 6: Meet With the Claims Adjuster
The insurer will assign a claims adjuster to inspect the damage.
Here’s what to expect:
• They may visit in person or conduct a virtual inspection
• Provide all documentation and receipts
• Walk them through the damaged areas
• Make a list of damaged possessions ahead of time
Be honest and thorough. The adjuster’s report will heavily influence your payout.
Step 7: Get Repair Estimates
You have the right to obtain your own quotes from licensed contractors.
• Get at least 2–3 estimates
• Compare labor, materials, and timelines
• Ask about warranties for completed work
Your insurer may also recommend preferred vendors, but you are not obligated to use them.
Step 8: Understand Your Deductible
Your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance contributes.
For example:
• $1,000 deductible
• $8,000 repair cost
→ Insurance pays $7,000
If the damage is minor and below your deductible, filing may not be worthwhile.
Step 9: Track Claim Progress
Most insurers offer online dashboards or app-based updates.
• Monitor status changes
• Upload additional documents when requested
• Follow up if there’s no activity for several days
Active communication helps prevent delays.
Step 10: Receive Your Settlement
Once approved, you’ll receive payment based on your policy type:
• Actual Cash Value (ACV): Depreciated value of items
• Replacement Cost Value (RCV): Cost to replace items without depreciation
Some insurers issue two payments: one up front (ACV) and another after repairs (recoverable depreciation).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Delaying your claim
• Throwing away damaged items before documenting them
• Not photographing temporary repairs
• Accepting the first settlement offer without reviewing details
• Failing to request additional living expenses if you’re displaced
• Not keeping receipts for hotel stays or meals
Avoiding these errors can save time and money.
Tips for Filing a Successful Home Insurance Claim
• Keep a home inventory for faster documentation
• Store receipts for valuables
• Maintain your roof, plumbing, and electrical systems
• Know what your policy covers before disaster strikes
• Communicate clearly with your adjuster
• Ask questions when details are unclear
• Keep records of all conversations and emails
Proactive preparation makes the claims process smoother and simpler.