What are the steps to filing a home damage claim?
Short answer. Stop the damage from getting worse, document everything with photos and video before cleanup, review your deductible and coverage, and then report the claim to your insurer with the date and cause of the loss. After that, meet the adjuster, keep receipts for emergency repairs and extra living costs, and review the written estimate line by line before accepting it.
Seven steps that keep a home claim on track
- Make it safe and stop the damage. Shut off water or power if needed, cover roof openings, board broken windows. Policies require reasonable steps to prevent further damage, and those costs are usually reimbursed.
- Document before cleanup. Take wide shots of each room and close-ups of damage, then a slow video walkthrough. Photograph damaged items before discarding them.
- Check your policy. Note the deductible that applies, your personal property and living expense limits, and any reporting deadlines.
- Report the loss. Give the date, cause and a factual description. Get a claim number.
- Track everything. Keep a log of calls, names and dates, and save receipts for hotels, meals and emergency services.
- Meet the adjuster. Walk them through every damaged area. Have your contractor present for the roof and structure.
- Review the estimate. Compare it to your contractor's scope and ask about anything missing before you accept it.
Paperwork you may be asked for
Insurers can request a signed, sworn proof of loss, often within 60 days of the request under common policy wording. Read any deadline in the letter carefully. For damaged belongings, build an inventory with descriptions, ages and estimated values.
When the check arrives
If you have a mortgage, the lender is often named on the check and must endorse it. See mortgage company insurance checks. If the insurer stops responding, see how to file a complaint in Georgia.