Filing a home insurance claim can be a little confusing if you’re doing it for the first time, here are some tips to help you out.
While we may hope that we never have to file a home insurance claim, some things lie beyond our control. The subsequent home damage can be a rather traumatic experience, and it can even disrupt your entire life–if the damage is substantial. When it comes to filing a home insurance claim, you should know what to do and what not to do to make the whole process go smoothly.
What to Do
- Call your insurance company right away. We don’t blame you if you want to ensure that your family is safe and sound before calling anyone, but it’s important that you call your insurance company as soon as possible to avoid any complications that could arise by stalling your claims process.
- Take pictures to have photographic evidence of the damage that was sustained. Of course, if your house was engulfed by flames and the ashes are still scorching, don’t put yourself at risk.
What Not to Do
- Don’t sign full authority of your claims process to your contractor. By signing away the claims process, you are also giving up the payout from your claim. Some contractors may take the money and leave the project unfinished.
- Don’t throw away your receipts if you are forced to stay elsewhere while your home is being repaired. Most homeowner insurance policies cover expenses if you needed to rent a room or stay at a hotel during this rough time in your life.
Do you have the homeowners insurance to protect yourself in case a covered disaster strikes your home? These tips should get you started on the right foot. To learn more about the policies you should have, contact Lou Aggetta Insurance Services in Pleasant Hill.