Information on Home Insurance Claims

Homeowners have an insurance policy that covers damages made to the home in case of a fire, theft or natural disaster.  Whenever something is destroyed on or inside the home, the homeowner will need to contact the insurance company to file a claim.  Filing a claim is the first step to getting the home repaired after a tragic event.

• When filing a claim, give as much information about what happened as possible.  You need to know when the damage occurred and what caused it.


• An adjuster will be assigned to your claim.  This is the person you will work with throughout the entire process.  If you have questions or concerns, the claims adjuster will help you.


• You will be issued a check for the amount of damage to your home.  The check will be the amount of money it will cost to repair the damage.  The deductible will be subtracted from the amount of money paid by the insurance company.  If you have a replacement cost program on your policy, you will need to show proof of completion or repairs before actual reimbursement costs will be provided.


• Filing a homeowner’s claim may take longer than an automobile claim, possibly a couple of months.  Be patient throughout this process and work with your adjuster and/or insurance agent to expedite the claim process.


• Though home insurance claims are filed less often than automobile claims, it is important to complete the claims process with your company in order to get a monetary reimbursement.


• Filing several home insurance claims in a year can increase the likelihood that your premiums will increase.  You should consider the severity of the damage before filing a claim.