Homeowners’ insurance is not cheap, so you want to ensure you get all the compensation you are entitled to should you ever need to use it. Sometimes, this is easier said than done. Insurance companies are skilled at delaying, denying or minimizing claims in order to protect their shareholders’ profits.
Here are some steps to take to improve your claim’s chance of success:
Inform your insurer promptly
Most insurance policies restrict how long you have to file a claim. You also need to make the initial call to them relatively quickly after the damage occurs, perhaps before you have all the information.
Gather evidence
The insurer will send one of their insurance adjusters to document the damage. Remember, they are working for the insurer, not you. Gathering your own evidence could prove crucial, especially if your insurer disputes all or part of your claim – which they might well do.
Take photos, and if you have pre-damage photos make copies of them to show the difference between before and after. Make a list of everything damaged or destroyed and try to note down each thing’s worth – you’ll be surprised how fast it can add up.
You must also get evidence of your conversations with the insurer and the adjuster. If one of them authorizes you to take action – such as replacing a broken front door – and says the insurance will cover it, get it in writing first.
Get help
Many mistakenly believe they can just let the insurance company work things out. They forget the insurer will look after its own interests. With appropriate help to document, present and argue your claim, you increase the chance you get the full amount of compensation you deserve.