Filing an insurance claim can be a stressful and overwhelming process, especially when you’re already dealing with the aftermath of property damage or loss. While most people are eager to get their claims resolved quickly, rushing through the process or making simple mistakes can cost you valuable compensation.
To ensure you receive the payout you deserve and avoid delays, it’s crucial to understand the common mistakes many policyholders make when filing insurance claims. In this blog, we’ll highlight five mistakes to avoid when filing an insurance claim and provide tips on how to handle the process efficiently.
1. Failing to Document the Damage Properly
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when filing an insurance claim is not documenting the damage thoroughly. Insurance companies rely on accurate, detailed evidence to assess the extent of your loss and determine your settlement. Without proper documentation, it can be difficult to prove the full scope of your claim.
What You Can Do:
- Take clear, detailed photos or videos of the damage from different angles. Include wide shots and close-ups of affected areas.
- Document the condition of your property before any repairs or cleaning are done. If you make temporary repairs, take photos of the situation beforehand.
- Keep a list of any damaged items, including descriptions, model numbers, and approximate values.
- If possible, get a professional assessment of the damage, especially for structural or hidden damage.
2. Not Reviewing Your Policy Before Filing
It’s easy to assume that your insurance policy covers everything, but policies can vary widely in terms of coverage limits, exclusions, and deductibles. Failing to review your policy before filing can lead to misunderstandings and wasted time. You might discover that certain types of damage are not covered, or your policy might have exclusions or specific requirements that you need to follow.
What You Can Do:
- Carefully review your insurance policy to understand what is covered and what is not.
- Pay attention to the exclusions listed in your policy, such as specific types of damage (flooding, earthquakes, etc.).
- Be aware of your deductible, coverage limits, and any special provisions for specific types of damage or property.
- Contact your insurance agent if you have any questions about your coverage.
3. Waiting Too Long to File a Claim
Insurance policies have deadlines for filing claims, and waiting too long can result in your claim being denied. Each insurer sets a time limit for how long after the event you can file a claim, which can range from days to months, depending on the type of policy. Failing to file within this timeframe could lead to a loss of your right to compensation.
What You Can Do:
- File your claim as soon as possible after the damage occurs, ideally within the first few days.
- If you’re unsure about the filing deadline, reach out to your insurance company to inquire about the time limits for submitting your claim.
- If circumstances prevent you from filing immediately, try to get in touch with your insurer to discuss any potential extensions or solutions.
4. Overlooking Small Damages or Underestimating Losses
It’s common to focus on large, obvious damage when filing a claim, but overlooking smaller damages or underestimating the extent of your losses can affect your payout. Even minor damages could be part of a larger issue that requires compensation. Additionally, some damages may only become apparent later on, such as hidden water damage, mold, or structural issues.
What You Can Do:
- Inspect your property thoroughly, including areas that may not be immediately visible or accessible, like the roof, attic, or basement.
- Keep track of all damages, even if they seem small or minor. Hidden damage can often lead to bigger problems down the road.
- If you’re unsure about the extent of the damage, consider hiring a professional to assess the property and give you a complete evaluation.
- Avoid making assumptions about what the insurance company will cover. Always report all damages you’ve identified, no matter how minor they seem.
5. Not Working with a Professional Public Adjuster
Many property owners try to navigate the insurance claims process on their own, thinking that they can handle it without outside help. However, insurance companies have their own adjusters and experts working in their best interests, which can put policyholders at a disadvantage. A public adjuster, on the other hand, works for you—not the insurance company—and can help ensure that your claim is handled fairly and accurately.
What You Can Do:
- Consider hiring a licensed public adjuster to help you assess the damage, document the loss, and negotiate with the insurance company.
- A public adjuster can help you maximize your settlement and ensure that no aspect of your claim is overlooked.
- Public adjusters understand the intricacies of insurance policies and claims processes, which can help prevent common mistakes and delays.
Filing an insurance claim doesn’t have to be a confusing or stressful experience if you take the right steps. By avoiding these common mistakes—such as failing to document the damage, not reviewing your policy, or waiting too long to file—you can increase your chances of receiving a fair and timely settlement. If you’re unsure about any part of the claims process, consider working with a professional, such as a public adjuster, to guide you through the process.
At Barclays Public Adjustors, we specialize in helping policyholders maximize their claims and ensure that they receive the compensation they deserve. If you’ve recently experienced property damage, contact us today for assistance with your insurance claim.