Claim Procedures

The claim process may begin in one of two ways. Your insurance company/carrier may send you a claim form, known as a "loss notice form" to complete or an adjuster may visit your home or business first, before you're asked to fill out any forms. An adjuster is a person professionally trained to assess the damage. In either case, the more information you have about your damaged possessions - a description of the item, the date of purchase and what it would cost to replace or repair - the faster your claim generally can be settled.

Preparing for an Adjuster's Visit

Make lists of the damaged items. If possible, take photographs of the damage, and put together a set of records - old receipts, bills and photographs - to help establish the price and age of everything that needs to be replaced or repaired. Write down brand names and model numbers of appliances and electronic equipment. Don't forget to list items such as clothing, sports equipment, tools, china, linens, outside furniture, holiday decorations, and hobby materials.

Don't throw out damaged furniture and other expensive items as the adjuster will want to see them. If your property was destroyed or you no longer have any records, you will have to work from memory. Try to picture the contents of every room and then write a description of what was there. Try also to remember where and when you bought each piece and about how much you paid. It may also speed up the settlement of your claim if you find out how much it will cost to replace the destroyed items.

Building Damage

Identify the structural damage to your home and other buildings on your premises, like a garage, tool shed or in-ground swimming pool. Make a list of everything you would like to show the adjuster when he or she arrives - for example, cracks in the walls, damage to the floor or ceiling and missing roof tiles. If structural damage is likely even though you can't see any signs of it, discuss this with your adjuster. In some cases, the adjuster may recommend hiring a licensed engineer or architect to inspect the property. You should also get the electrical system checked. Most insurance companies pay for such inspections.

If possible, get written bids from reliable, licensed contractors on the repair work. The bids should include details of the materials to be used and prices on a line-by-line basis. This makes adjusting the claim faster and simpler.

Give yourself several days before the adjuster arrives to complete your lists. It will take time to assess the damage. Although you can always notify the adjuster of any additional items you overlooked, this may slow up your claim settlement. Be sure to keep copies of the lists and other documents you submit to your insurance company. Also keep copies of whatever paperwork your insurance company gives you.