Insurance Claim Process

Stage 1: Damage Occurs and Initial Response

Damage happens. Your first priority is safety and preventing further damage. Take emergency measures like tarping roofs or shutting off water. Document everything immediately with photos and videos. Contact your insurance company within 24-48 hours.

Stage 2: Claim Filing and Assignment

You file a formal claim with your insurance company. They assign a claim number and adjuster. You'll receive contact information and initial instructions. This typically happens within 2-3 days of reporting damage.

Stage 3: Investigation and Inspection

The adjuster schedules an inspection, typically within 7-10 days. They examine damage, take photos, and ask questions about causation. Be present for this inspection and point out all damage. The adjuster will also review your policy to determine coverage.

Stage 4: Evaluation and Initial Offer

The adjuster prepares an estimate and the insurance company makes an initial settlement offer. This usually arrives 2-3 weeks after inspection. The initial offer is almost always negotiable and often significantly lower than fair value.

Stage 5: Negotiation

You review the offer, obtain contractor estimates, and negotiate for a fair settlement. This phase involves back-and-forth communication, submission of additional documentation, and potentially re-inspections. Negotiation can take 2-6 weeks.

Stage 6: Settlement or Dispute Resolution

Either you reach agreement and receive payment, or you move to formal dispute resolution through appeals, appraisal, mediation, or litigation.

Stage 7: Repairs and Recoverable Depreciation

You complete repairs and, if applicable, submit documentation to recover depreciation holdback. This final payment typically comes within 30 days of submitting repair invoices.

• Document Immediately — Take comprehensive photos and videos before any cleanup or repairs
• Report Promptly — File your claim within 24-48 hours of discovering damage
• Mitigate Further Damage — Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage
• Be Present for Inspections — Walk the adjuster through all damage areas
• Get Independent Estimates — Obtain at least two contractor estimates before negotiating
• Review Offers Carefully — Compare adjuster estimates line-by-line against contractor quotes
• Negotiate Professionally — Use facts and documentation, not emotion
• Track Everything — Keep detailed records of all communications and submissions
• Know Your Deadlines — Track and meet all filing and appeal deadlines
• Escalate When Necessary — Don't let your claim stall without taking action