How to File a Home Insurance Claim Successfully

🧾 Why Knowing the Claims Process Matters

Whether your roof was damaged by a storm or a pipe burst in your kitchen, the moment disaster strikes is not the time to Google what to do next.

Homeowners' insurance is there to protect you, but only if you follow the right steps.

This guide walks you through exactly how to file a home insurance claim successfully, so you get what you deserve, without unnecessary stress or delays.

📌 Before You File: What to Know First

✅ Know what’s covered: Review your policy and understand what types of damage or loss are included—and what’s excluded (like flood or wear and tear).
✅ Know your deductible: You’ll be responsible for paying this portion before insurance kicks in. For small damage, it may not be worth filing.

🧰 Step-by-Step: Filing a Home Insurance Claim

1. 🚨 Secure the Area & Prevent Further Damage

Right after damage occurs:

Make sure everyone is safe

Shut off water/electricity if needed

Cover broken windows or leaks to prevent additional damage

🔧 Tip: Keep receipts for any emergency repairs—you may be reimbursed.

2. 📸 Document the Damage Thoroughly

Before you clean or move anything, take detailed photos and videos of the damage from every angle. Include:

Damaged items

Structural issues

Outdoor areas, if affected

Also note when it happened, what caused it, and any witnesses or weather details.

📷 More proof = fewer disputes.

3. 📞 Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurer as soon as possible. Most companies have a 24/7 claims helpline or a mobile app to start the process.

Be prepared with:

Policy number

Date/time of incident

Type of damage

Emergency actions taken

They’ll guide you on the next steps and assign a claims adjuster.

4. 📝 Complete the Claim Form Accurately

You may be asked to fill out a "proof of loss" form. Be honest, detailed, and include:

List of all damaged/lost items

Estimated repair or replacement cost

Supporting documents (photos, receipts)

Pro Tip: Double-check everything before submitting—errors can delay approval.

5. 👷‍♂️ Meet with the Claims Adjuster

The insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the damage and validate your claim.

During their visit:

Show all damage (don’t clean too much)

Provide repair quotes or item estimates

Be present and ask questions

🧠 Be polite but firm. It’s okay to advocate for your losses.

6. 💬 Get Repair Quotes (At Least 2–3)

Even if your insurer provides its own contractor, you can and should get multiple quotes to ensure fair pricing.

Ask for:

Labour + material breakdowns

Timelines

Warranties or guarantees

This also helps if your claim is underpaid and you need to negotiate.

7. 💸 Track All Expenses & Communication

Keep a folder with:

Emails and call logs with your insurance

Receipts for repairs, hotels (if displaced), or rentals

All forms and claim-related documents

In case of disputes, organized records = faster resolution.

8. ✅ Receive the Settlement & Begin Repairs

Once approved, your insurer will:

Pay your contractor directly, or

Send you a check (minus your deductible)

Some payouts happen in stages (e.g., before and after work is completed).

Always review the settlement amount and don’t hesitate to negotiate if something seems off.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Waiting too long to file (may void your claim)
🚫 Forgetting to document damage
🚫 Throwing away damaged items too early
🚫 Accepting a low settlement without question
🚫 Not understanding your coverage limits

💬 When to Hire a Public Adjuster

If your claim is complex or you're underpaid, you may consider hiring a licensed public adjuster. They work for you, not the insurance company, and can help maximise your payout—for a fee.

Use this option if:

Your damage is major

Your claim is denied

You're not confident navigating negotiations alone

📝 Summary: Home Insurance Claim Process

Step	Action Required
1. Secure & prevent damage	Stop further loss, keep receipts
2. Document everything	Photos, videos, dates
3. Contact insurer ASAP	Start the claims process
4. Submit forms accurately	List damage, value, include receipts
5. Meet adjuster	Walk them through all damage
6. Get repair quotes	2–3 quotes for comparison
7. Track everything	Receipts, emails, expenses
8. Settle & repair	Review payout, start restoration