Before a Claim Happens
Even before you may suffer damage to your home, automobile, or business, Review your insurance policy immediately upon receipt. As a policyholder you should verify coverage’s, limits of insurance, deductibles and all other included documents within the insurance policy to help avoid potential claim disputes. ALL insurance policies are different. Make sure you know and understand how your policy is written. Reviewing your policy whether it’s a personal policy, commercial policy, or a benefits plan, may help avoid potential claim issues in the event of a loss situation.
A Few Policyholder Tips After a Loss has Occurred:
Minimize the loss as reasonably as possible. Example; extinguish a small fire, turn water off, board up windows due to storm damage, ect.
In a fire situation – Call the Fire Department Immediately.
Notify your insurance agent immediately following damage.
Take pictures of ALL damaged items.
Do not make permanent repairs prior to having the damaged items inspected by the appropriate insurance professionals.
Notify the police in the event of theft, vandalism, arson, or any other criminal act.
Protect your property from further damage.
Keep receipts and all paperwork of the expenses you incurred as a result of the loss.
Make a written list of all the damaged items.
Place damaged items in a secure place away from further damage where they can be inspected.
If possible, determine what it will cost to repair your property before you meet with the claims adjuster. Provide the claims adjuster with records of any improvements you made to your property. Ask the claims adjuster for an itemized explanation of the claim settlement offer.
For accident and health claims, ask your physician to provide your insurance company with details about your treatment, medical conditions and prognosis.
If you are still unsure of what to do call your insurance agent for further professional advice.
