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How do I file a homeowners claim?
If someone has
become injured on your property or if a violent storm destroys your
home, you will need to file a claim with your insurance company.
Remember, a homeowners policy is a contract between you and your
insurance company. And there are rules and procedures that you and your
insurer must follow. Read your insurance policy to see what your
responsibilities are.
Report any crime to the police
If you are the victim of a theft or your home has been vandalized or
burglarized, report it to the police. Get a police report and the names
of all law enforcement officers that you speak with.
Phone your agent or company immediately
Insurance policies place a time limit on filing claims. Find out what
the time limit is. Ask questions: Am I covered? Does my claim exceed my
deductible? (Your deductible is the amount of loss you agree to pay
yourself when you buy a policy.) How long will it take to process my
claim? Will I need to obtain estimates for repairs to structural damage?
Make temporary repairs
Take reasonable steps to protect your property from further damage.
Save receipts for what you spend and submit them to your insurance
company for reimbursement.
Prepare a list of lost or damaged
articles
You are going to need to substantiate your loss. Avoid throwing out
damaged items until the adjuster has visited your home. You should also
consider photographing or videotaping the damage. Prepare a home
inventory, make a copy for your adjuster and supply him or her with
copies of receipts from damaged items.
If you need to relocate, keep your
receipts
If your home is severely damaged and you need to find other
accommodations while repairs are being made, keep records of all
additional expenses incurred. Most homeowners insurance policies
provide coverage for the “loss of use” of your home.
Get claim forms
Once your insurance company has been notified of your claim, the
company is required to send you the necessary claim forms to you by the
end of a specified time period. (The time period varies from state to
state.) Return the properly filled out forms as soon as possible in
order to avoid delays.
Have an adjuster inspect the damage to
your home
Your insurance company will probably arrange for an adjuster to come
and inspect your home.
Once you and your insurance company agree on the terms of your
settlement, state laws require that you be sent payment promptly. In
most cases, your claim will be processed quickly. If you have any
questions about the claim filing laws in your state, call your
insurance agent or your state department of insurance.
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