A Clear Guide to the Home Insurance Claims Process

Discovering damage to your home is stressful. The last thing you want is a confusing claims process on top of it. Here's exactly what to do, step by step, to make your claim as smooth as possible.

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

Before anything else, make sure everyone is safe. If there's structural damage, don't enter the home until it's been deemed safe. Call 911 for emergencies, and if there's a gas leak, evacuate immediately.

Step 2: Document Everything

This is the most critical step for maximizing your claim:

• Take photos and video of all damage from multiple angles
• Don't throw anything away until the adjuster has seen it
• Make a list of all damaged items with approximate values
• Save receipts for any emergency expenses (hotel, food, temporary repairs)

Step 3: Make Temporary Repairs

You're required to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. This might include:

• Covering a damaged roof with a tarp
• Boarding up broken windows
• Shutting off water to stop a leak

Important: Keep all receipts. Temporary repair costs are covered by your policy.

Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Agent

Call your agent as soon as possible — ideally within 24 hours of discovering the damage. When you call, have ready:

• Your policy number
• Date and time of the damage
• Brief description of what happened
• Preliminary photos if available

At Total Quality Insurance, we help guide our clients through every step of the claims process. We're your advocate, not just your policy seller.

Step 5: Meet with the Adjuster

The insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. Tips for the adjuster visit:

• Be present during the inspection
• Point out all areas of damage — don't assume they'll find everything
• Provide your documentation and photos
• Ask questions about anything you don't understand

Step 6: Review the Settlement Offer

You'll receive a settlement offer detailing what the carrier will pay. Review it carefully:

• Compare the offer to your documented damages
• Check whether it's based on replacement cost or actual cash value
• If you disagree with the amount, you can negotiate or request a re-inspection

Step 7: Complete Repairs

Choose reputable contractors (get at least 2–3 bids) and complete repairs. If the actual repair cost exceeds the estimate, submit the additional invoices for supplemental payment.

When to Seek Help

If your claim is denied, underpaid, or delayed, don't give up. Contact your agent for advocacy, file a complaint with the state Department of Insurance, or consider hiring a public adjuster for large claims.

Need Claims Help?

If you're dealing with a claim and need guidance, contact our team. We'll help you navigate the process and fight for the settlement you deserve.