Learn how to successfully file an insurance claim while avoiding common mistakes and insurer tricks that keep you from recieving the benefits you paid for.
Common Mistakes People
Make Before Filing A Homeowner’s
Insurance Claim
The most frequent causes of homeowner’s claims are wind, hail, and water damage.
When should I file my homeowner’s insurance claim?
4 Tactics Homeowner’s Insurance Companies Use to Deny Your Claim
In any given year, approximately 7 percent of insured homeowner’s filed a claim.
Already filed an insurance claim? Are the insurers giving you the run around? Avoid common mistakes and learn the tricks the insurer use to keep you from receiving the benefits you paid for. Learn how to get through the red tape and get what you are owed with less hassle! Learn More! 
In terms of dollars, jewelry was the top category for claims covered by homeowner’s insurance policies.
How is my homeowner’s insurance claim going to be evaluated?
The average premium for homeowner’s insurance in 2012 was $909
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When should I file my homeowner’s insurance claim?
A: Immediately. If you’re in an area that experienced a natural disaster, you’re going to want to file as quickly as possible to avoid the inevitable backlog of claims that your insurer will be dealing with. For isolated incidents, an agent will probably assess the damage themselves, which works out best for the homeowner. An agent is in the best position to expedite a claim.
Q: What information will I need to file a homeowner’s insurance claim?
A: To file a homeowner’s insurance claim, you’re going to need a few things:
- A copy of your policy.
- Documented evidence of damage.
After that, it’s really going to depend on the nature of your claim. Ideally, you want to have receipts for the full cost of valuable items, like electronics or jewelry. Though you may not be able to reclaim the full value of lost property, documenting your costs will help get you closer to full value.
Q: How is my homeowner’s insurance claim going to be evaluated?
A: Your homeowner’s insurance claim will largely be evaluated based on available evidence. Homeowner’s insurance companies each handle claims in their own unique way, which includes different calculations for damage. Know your policy and determine the extent of the damage to your home as quickly as possible. Proving the cost of damage to your home is going to be one of the most important steps in the claims process. The insurance company adjuster will have their own method, you can also seek a second opinion.
Q: How long will it take to get a response on my homeowner’s insurance claim?
A: It really depends. Sometimes an agent can make an offer on the first visit (if the home is owned free and clear) but homeowner’s should be wary of accepting an early offer. In many places, it is the responsibility of the homeowner to follow certain protocol within 30 days of filing a claim. The whole process could take anywhere from two weeks to several months. In some cases where the homeowner contests the payout on a claim, delays can last years. To sum up, be prepared for the long haul when filing a homeowner’s insurance claim.
Q: Am I going to be reimbursed for living expenses or other miscellaneous costs while waiting for my claim to be filed?
A: This is also going to depend on your policy coverage. Some policies will cover living expenses while others don’t. Again, it’s really important that you understand the full consequences of your policy before filing a claim. If you don’t, you and your family could be caught off guard paying out of pocket for things you though were covered.
Q: I’m not satisfied with my homeowner’s insurance claim, what next?
A: We’re sorry you’re experiencing difficulty with your homeowner’s insurance. This happens from time to time, even for valid claims. You can file an appeal with your insurance company though the appeals process often reflects the original claims process. If you’ve been denied or had damage to your home underestimated, it might be time to contact an attorney.