The Most Important Thing to Do First
Before you call your insurance company, document everything. Take photos and videos of all damage from multiple angles. If the damage is to your roof, photograph it from the ground and document the date and time of the event that caused the damage. If damage is inside your home from water, fire, or other causes, photograph every affected area before any cleanup begins.
This documentation is the foundation of your claim. The more thorough your documentation, the smoother your claims process will be.
Step 1: Prevent Further Damage
You have a responsibility under your policy to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage after a covered loss. If a storm has created an opening in your roof, cover it with a tarp. If a pipe has burst, shut off the water and start removing standing water. Keep receipts for any emergency protective measures you take because these costs may be reimbursable under your policy.
Step 2: Report the Claim Promptly
Contact your insurance company to report the claim as soon as reasonably possible. Most policies require prompt notification of a loss. When you call, have your policy number ready and be prepared to describe the damage and the event that caused it.
If you work with us at Bryan Sparks Insurance Agency, call us first. We will help you understand your coverage, walk you through the reporting process, and advocate on your behalf throughout the claims process. Having a local agent in your corner makes a real difference.
Step 3: Work With the Claims Adjuster
After you report a claim, your insurance company will assign a claims adjuster who will inspect the damage and assess the cost to repair or replace it. Be present for the inspection if at all possible. Walk the adjuster through all of the damage you have documented. Do not rush this process.
If you disagree with the adjuster’s assessment, you have options. You can request a reinspection, hire a public adjuster to represent your interests, or in certain situations invoke the appraisal process outlined in your policy.
Step 4: Get Contractor Estimates
Get at least two to three written estimates from licensed contractors for the repair work. Be especially cautious after major storms when out-of-state contractors arrive in large numbers. Verify that any contractor you consider using is licensed in Texas, carries their own insurance, and has verifiable local references.
Never sign a contract that includes an assignment of benefits or that requires you to allow a contractor to negotiate directly with your insurance company on your behalf without fully understanding what you are signing.
Step 5: Understand Your Settlement
Once the adjuster completes their assessment, your insurance company will issue a settlement. Review it carefully. Make sure all damage has been accounted for. Understand whether your settlement is based on replacement cost value or actual cash value and what that means for your out-of-pocket costs. If anything in the settlement does not make sense, ask for an explanation before accepting.
We Are Here Throughout the Process
Filing a claim can feel overwhelming, especially after a significant loss. As your local agent, we stay involved throughout the claims process to answer your questions, help you understand your rights, and make sure the process goes as smoothly as possible. You do not have to navigate this alone.
Leave a Reply