How To Tackle Insurance With Damage To Your Home
When disaster strikes, whether it’s a burst pipe or a fire, navigating the insurance claim process can seem daunting. However, understanding how to effectively manage a home insurance claim can make the recovery process smoother and less stressful.
Immediately after an incident, your first priority should be to ensure safety. Once everyone is safe, begin assessing the damage. This includes identifying what’s been damaged or destroyed and taking necessary steps to prevent further harm. For example, if there’s water damage, turning off the water supply can help minimize additional damage. Take clear photos and videos of all affected areas, including any belongings that have been damaged or destroyed.
Should I Call My Insurance Company?
Home insurance policies are designed to protect homeowners from financial loss due to damage or loss. However, coverage can vary widely depending on your policy type, the specifics of the damage, and any exclusions or limitations. Start by reviewing your home insurance policy to understand what is covered. Pay special attention to the exclusions section of your policy. Common exclusions include damage from floods, earthquakes, or routine wear and tear. You might need separate policies or endorsements for these types of coverage.
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process. Most insurance providers offer a 24/7 hotline for emergency claims. Provide them with the necessary information, including a description of the damage, the date it occurred, and your policy number. This initial contact will set the stage for the claims process and help you understand the next steps.
How To Start a Claim And What Information To Gather
To start your claim, you should gather the following information: photos, broken parts, third party inspections of the assessed damage, mitigation, contents of the property, receipts and any utility bills. It is important to note that some insurance carriers have a very specific amount of time that certain types of damage must be reported in order to still be covered. You should be reporting the damage as soon as possible if you would like to go through your insurance.
Keep detailed records of all expenses related to the damage and repairs. This includes receipts for temporary repairs, hotel stays if you’re displaced, and any other costs incurred while dealing with the damage. Your insurance company may require this documentation to process your claim and reimburse you for out-of-pocket expenses.
Stay in touch with your insurance company throughout the repair process to address any additional questions or concerns. Once repairs are complete, submit any final documentation or invoices as required. Your insurance company will then finalize your claim, and any remaining funds or reimbursements will be processed
Lastly, you may want to choose your own contractor to begin repairing your home. As most insurance carriers will be sure to tell you, South Carolina is a “Right to Choose” state, and you are not obligated to use any one particular contractor to handle the repairs to your home. For mitigation or remediation, we recommend they have their IICRC certification, and that someone who will be onsite at least some portion of the cleanup be a certificate holder.
