A Guide to Filing a Home Insurance Claim
A home insurance policy provides essential protection against theft or damage to your home and property. But making a claim can sometimes be a confusing and long drawn out process. And while Santa Fe Home Insurance can simplify things considerably, there are still some important steps to keep in mind when filing a home insurance claim.
How does a home insurance claim work?
Home insurance essentially covers the cost of repair, renovation, or replacement of the home (or its contents) after a burglary or a disastrous event. This policy is customizable, but it is subject to approval by the insurer.
To benefit from home insurance, the policyholder will have to file the necessary claim. The amount that the insurance firm will pay out depends on the coverage detailed in the home insurance policy.
What does home insurance cover?
Most home insurance policies cover the following:
Interior or exterior damage. Policyholders will be compensated for the repair and reconstruction of damaged areas caused by fire, hurricanes, lightning, and other calamities. Appliances, furniture, and clothes may also be covered if they were destroyed during the incident. Depending on the policy, damage or losses due to earthquakes, floods, and improper construction or maintenance may not be covered.
Liability for accidents or injuries. This clause protects you from lawsuits arising from the following incidents:
- When your pet injures a neighbor
- When your child or pet damages a neighbor’s furniture
- When a guest slips and falls due to your negligence or direct action
Lodge or house rental. If you have to stay in a hotel or other lodging temporarily while your house is being renovated, you will be reimbursed for rent, meals, and related expenses.
How much does home insurance cost?
The premiums for home insurance depend on the extent of the coverage plus any additional policies you wish to add. In Santa Fe, for example, home insurance costs about $2,024 per year on average for dwelling coverage equivalent to $250,000.
How do you file a home insurance claim?
The claiming process for home insurance varies considerably depending on the provider. In most cases, however, you will have to go through the following steps:
- File a police report. If a crime is involved, like theft or vandalism, you will first have to file a police report. This is necessary for documentation and investigation.
- Inform your insurance provider. The next step is to notify your insurance company, which you will have to do as soon as possible after an accident, crime, or injury. Doing so will help you determine if your policy covers the incident and how much loss you incurred.
- Fill up the claim form. Claim forms serve as additional documents of the incident. These include your personal information and other details related to the incident.
- Submit supporting materials. You may also submit additional proof of the incident in photo or video form. This proof could help strengthen your claim and increase your chances of getting full compensation.
- Prepare for the appraiser’s visit. The insurance provider will schedule an interview and assessment with an appraiser. The appraiser will examine the damage to conclude how much compensation you can expect. You may be present during the investigation to point out the damage or any other concerns.
If you have to perform repairs to prevent further damage or harm, make sure to document everything beforehand. It would also help to keep receipts for reimbursement purposes.
What can you expect when filing a home insurance claim?
You can expect to be interviewed closely when you file an insurance claim, possibly more than once. Although these interviews can be inconvenient and sometimes seem intrusive or invasive, they are a necessary part of the process. The appraiser will have to determine whether the claim is warranted to determine how much compensation you are entitled to receive.
Remember, it is in your best interests to cooperate with your insurance firm and provide all the required details. It would also help to document the incident as thoroughly and accurately as possible to strengthen your claim. By cooperating fully and providing thorough and accurate documentation, you will have a much better chance of getting the compensation you deserve.
About Daniels Insurance, Inc.
At Daniels Insurance, Inc., we have a unique understanding of the risks that businesses like yours face on a regular basis. With the backing of our comprehensive coverages and our dedication to customer service and quick claims resolution, your business will be fully protected. For more information, contact us today at (855) 565-7616.