Filing a Home Insurance Claim: A Step-by-Step Guide

A pipe burst in your kitchen at 3 AM. A tree fell on your roof during the storm. Now what?

The actions you take in the first 24 hours after a loss can determine whether your claim is paid fully or denied. Follow this playbook.

Step 1: Safety & Mitigation

Step 2: Start the Paper Trail

Before you clean up anything (except for immediate safety), document the scene.

• Take Photos/Videos: Wide shots of the room and close-ups of the damage.
• Make a List: Write down every item that was damaged (brand, model, age).
• Do Not Throw Away: Do not toss the ruined carpet or the burnt toaster until the adjuster sees them.

Step 3: Call Your Agent

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. They will assign you a claim number and an **Insurance Adjuster**.

Ask them:

• Is this type of damage covered?
• What is my deductible?
• How long will the process take?
• Do I need estimates from contractors?

Step 4: Meeting the Adjuster

The adjuster works for the insurance company. They are friendly, but their job is to pay what the policy owes, not a penny more.

Tip: Walk through your home with them. Point out every bit of damage. Do not assume they will see it. If you disagree with their assessment, you have the right to hire a "Public Adjuster" (who works for you, for a fee) to fight for a higher payout.

Step 5: The Payout

You will likely receive two checks.

1. ACV Check: The first check is for the "Actual Cash Value" (depreciated amount) of the loss. Use this to start repairs.
2. Recoverable Depreciation: Once you complete the repairs and show receipts proving you spent the money, they will send the second check for the difference.

Conclusion

Filing a claim is stressful, but organization is your best weapon. Keep a binder with every receipt, email, and photo. The easier you make it for the adjuster to approve your claim, the faster you get your life back to normal.

Frequently Asked Questions