Insurance Claim Requirements

Basic Claim Requirements

All insurance claims require certain basic information and documentation. Meeting these requirements from the start prevents delays and strengthens your claim.

Policy Information

You'll need your policy number, effective dates, and coverage details. Have your full policy documents available, not just the declarations page. The adjuster will reference specific policy provisions.

Loss Information

Provide the date of loss, cause of damage, and a detailed description of what happened. Be specific—"roof leak" isn't enough. Explain when you first noticed damage, what caused it, and how it progressed.

Contact Information

Provide current phone numbers, email addresses, and mailing addresses. Include the best times to reach you. Claims stall when adjusters can't contact policyholders.

Property Information

Include property address, type of structure, age, square footage, and any recent improvements or repairs. This helps adjusters evaluate coverage and replacement costs.

Documentation Requirements

Photos and Videos

Comprehensive visual documentation of all damage from multiple angles

Contractor Estimates

Detailed repair estimates from licensed contractors

Receipts and Invoices

Proof of emergency repairs and temporary housing expenses

Proof of Ownership

Receipts, photos, or other evidence of damaged personal property

Police or Fire Reports

Official reports if damage involved theft, vandalism, or fire

Expert Reports

Engineer, contractor, or specialist assessments for complex damage

Complete Claim Requirements Checklist

Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure you meet all claim requirements.

Notice of Loss — Prompt written or verbal notification of damage to your insurer
Proof of Loss Form — Formal sworn statement detailing your loss (if required by your policy)
Damage Photos — Multiple photos of each damaged area from different angles
Damage Videos — Video walkthrough showing extent and context of damage
Contractor Estimates — At least two detailed estimates from licensed contractors
Personal Property Inventory — List of damaged items with descriptions, ages, and values
Purchase Receipts — Proof of ownership and value for high-value items
Emergency Repair Documentation — Receipts for tarps, board-up, water extraction, etc.
Temporary Housing Receipts — Hotel bills or rental receipts if you had to relocate
Communication Log — Record of all conversations with your insurer

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I don't have all the required documentation?

Submit what you have and explain what's missing. Many requirements can be satisfied with alternative documentation. Don't delay filing your claim because you lack perfect documentation.

Do I need to wait for the adjuster before documenting damage?

No. Document damage immediately. Take photos and videos before making any repairs (except emergency repairs to prevent further damage).

How detailed do contractor estimates need to be?

Very detailed. Line-item estimates showing materials, labor, and quantities are much more persuasive than lump-sum bids.

Can I submit additional documentation after filing my claim?

Yes. You can and should submit supplemental documentation as you gather it. Just reference your claim number in all submissions.

What if the adjuster asks for documentation I don't have?

Explain why you don't have it and offer alternative documentation. If the request is unreasonable, you can challenge it.