How to File a Homeowners Insurance Claim: Step-by-Step Guide

After a fire, storm, or break-in, filing a homeowners insurance claim can feel overwhelming. But acting quickly and correctly can speed up your payout and reduce stress. This guide walks you through the entire process—from documenting damage to receiving your settlement—so you know exactly what to do when disaster strikes.

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

Before anything else, make sure you and your family are safe. If your home is unsafe (e.g., fire damage, gas leak, structural instability), evacuate and contact emergency services. Do not re-enter until authorities declare it safe.

Step 2: Prevent Further Damage

Most policies require you to “mitigate” additional loss. This means taking reasonable steps like:

• Covering a broken roof with a tarp
• Turning off water mains after a pipe burst
• Boarding up broken windows

Keep all receipts—your insurer will likely reimburse these “temporary repair” costs.

Step 3: Document Everything

Before cleaning or discarding anything, thoroughly document the damage:

• Take **photos and videos** from multiple angles
• Make a **written list** of all damaged or lost items, including brand, model, age, and estimated value
• Gather **proof of ownership**: receipts, credit card statements, owner’s manuals, or even product boxes

If possible, avoid throwing away damaged items until the adjuster inspects them.

Step 4: Contact Your Insurer Promptly

Most policies require you to report a claim “as soon as reasonably possible.” Delays can lead to denial. When you call:

• Have your policy number ready
• Provide a clear summary of what happened, when, and the extent of damage
• Ask for a claim number and the name of your adjuster

Many insurers also allow online or mobile app claims—often faster than phone.

Step 5: Understand Your Coverage

Review your policy to know what’s covered:

• Dwelling coverage: Repairs to the structure
• Other structures: Detached garage, fence, shed
• Personal property: Furniture, electronics, clothing
• Loss of use: Hotel costs if you can’t live in your home

Note your deductible—this amount is subtracted from your payout.

Step 6: Work With the Adjuster

The insurance adjuster will inspect your home and assess the damage. During this visit:

• Walk them through all damaged areas
• Share your documentation (photos, inventory list)
• Ask questions if you don’t understand their estimate

You have the right to get a second opinion if you believe the estimate is too low.

Step 7: Receive and Review Your Settlement

Most insurers issue payments in stages:

• Initial payment: Covers emergency repairs and temporary living expenses
• Final payment: Issued after repairs are complete (for replacement cost policies)

If you have “actual cash value” (ACV) coverage, you’ll get one payment based on depreciated value. With “replacement cost” (RCV), you get the full amount after proving you replaced items.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Waiting too long to file
Most policies require notice within 30–60 days.

2. Making permanent repairs too soon
Wait for the adjuster’s inspection unless it’s an emergency fix.

3. Underestimating your losses
Be thorough in your inventory—people often forget small items like kitchenware or clothing.

4. Not knowing your policy limits
Some items (jewelry, art) may have sub-limits unless you scheduled them.

What If Your Claim Is Denied?

You can:

• Request a written explanation
• Appeal internally with your insurer
• Contact your state’s insurance department for help
• Hire a public adjuster (they work for you, not the insurer)

Most denials are due to misunderstandings or missing documentation—not bad faith.

Key Takeaway

Filing a homeowners claim is manageable when you follow a clear process. Act quickly, document thoroughly, and communicate openly with your insurer. Keep your policy details and home inventory in a safe, accessible place (like cloud storage) so you’re prepared before disaster strikes.