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Claims Process

Steps to File a Claim

Here are the general steps for a policyholder to file a property insurance claim:

  1. Report the incident to the insurance company as soon as possible. This can typically be done by calling the company’s claims hotline or filling out an online claim form.
  2. Gather all relevant documentation, including photos of the damage, a police report (if applicable), and any other relevant documentation such as receipts or invoices.
  3. File the claim with the insurance company. This typically involves providing the insurance company with the documentation you’ve gathered and answering any questions the company may have.
  4. Wait for the insurance company to assess the claim. This typically involves the company sending an adjuster to inspect the damage and determine the cost of repairs or replacement.
  5. Negotiate the claim. Once the insurance company has assessed the claim, they will offer a settlement. This can be negotiated by the policyholder, or by a public adjuster if the policyholder hires one.
  6. Receive payment. Once the claim is settled and the policyholder agrees to the settlement, the insurance company will release the payment for the claim.
  7. Repair or rebuild. With the payment in hand, the policyholder can repair or rebuild their property.

Please note that the specific steps and requirements may vary depending on the insurance company and the type of claim being filed. It’s important to carefully review your policy and follow the instructions provided by the insurance company to ensure that your claim is handled properly.

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Document Checklist

Here is a sample document checklist for a policyholder to file a property insurance claim:

  1. Proof of insurance: A copy of the policyholder’s insurance policy, including the policy number and any endorsements.
  2. Photos of the damage: Detailed photographs of the damage to the property, both exterior and interior.
  3. Police report: A copy of the police report, if the incident was a result of theft, vandalism or any other criminal activity
  4. Receipts and invoices: Any receipts or invoices related to the incident, such as for temporary repairs or cleaning services
  5. Appraisal: An appraisal of the value of any damaged or destroyed personal property
  6. Inventory of damaged items: A detailed list of all items that were damaged or destroyed, including make, model and serial numbers, purchase date and purchase price
  7. Receipts for additional living expenses: Any receipts for additional living expenses incurred as a result of the incident, such as hotel bills or restaurant receipts
  8. Business interruption documents: If the policyholder runs a business, they should provide documents such as financial statements, income tax returns, and profit and loss statements to prove the loss of income
  9. Any other relevant documentation: Any other documents that may be relevant to the claim, such as repair estimates or contractor invoices.

Please note that this is just a sample list and the actual documents required will depend on the specific nature of the claim and the requirements of the insurance company. It’s important to carefully review your policy and follow the instructions provided by the insurance company to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation to file a claim.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What is a public adjuster and what do they do?

A public adjuster is a professional who represents policyholders in the claims process. They help policyholders navigate the often complex and confusing process of filing and settling insurance claims, and work to ensure that policyholders receive the maximum settlement for their claim.

Public adjusters typically work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if the policyholder receives a settlement from the insurance company. The fee is a percentage of the settlement, and is agreed upon by the policyholder in advance.

Public adjusters can help with a wide variety of claims, including those related to damage to property, business interruption, and liability. They have the knowledge and expertise to handle complex claims such as those related to natural disasters, fires, and other catastrophes.

The claims process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the claim and the responsiveness of the insurance company. A public adjuster can help expedite the process and ensure that the claim is handled in a timely and efficient manner.

While public adjusters are typically brought in for larger and more complex claims, they can also be beneficial for smaller claims. They can help policyholders understand their coverage, ensure that all necessary documents are filed, and negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement.

No, hiring a public adjuster will not affect your relationship with your insurance company. In fact, many insurance companies have a better working relationship with public adjusters than with policyholders, as adjusters can help to streamline the claims process and ensure that all necessary information is provided.

Yes, a public adjuster can help you if your claim was denied by your insurance company. They will review the denial and the reason for the denial, and work with you to gather additional evidence and present a strong case to the insurance company.

To ensure that a public adjuster is licensed and reputable, you can check with your state’s insurance commission to confirm their license status and check for any complaints or disciplinary actions. You can also ask for references from previous clients and read online reviews.

Public adjusters can help policyholders with both commercial and residential properties. They have the knowledge and expertise to help policyholders navigate the claims process for any type of property, whether it’s a home, business, or other type of commercial building.

Yes, public adjusters can help you if you have a liability claim. They can work with you to gather evidence and present a strong case to the insurance company to help you receive a fair settlement.

No, hiring a public adjuster will not increase your insurance rates.

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