| By :
Mark Etinger
Why do we get home insurance? We sign up for it because our home is our haven. It keeps us safe, warm, and happy. A plan will protect you against natural disasters, fire, theft, and other potential damages. Hopefully you won't have to handle a serious claim but when you do, here are some tips to help you along in the process. The minute you realize the damage to your home is beyond your control, notify your homeowners insurance company immediately. The sooner you get around to the notification the faster they can file the necessary information to help you. When you call, be sure you get the name of the agent and their contact information, including that of the department. This way if something comes up or there needs to be any follow up, you don't have to go through several channels to get back in touch with them. When you call, make sure you figure out their way of handling the claim. Ask for a list of approved businesses for emergency and immediate repairs for your property so you can get started on reconstruction as soon as possible. Any businesses affiliated with a certain claims office can probably bill your company directly so you avoid some of the hassle of having to be the middle man. If you need any paperwork, request it as well. It does not hurt to ask so that everything you do is on record and in accordance to the policy you own. When you've finished reporting the damage it is time to take extensive documentation of the property. Use a camera to photograph all the major problems. Get several angles for each sector with damage. Also, take video whenever possible and jot notes so you have details of what repairs will be necessary to move forward. You will need to present this information to the agent at some point so it needs to be crystal clear what you're expecting and what you are going to need to be covered properly. This would also be the time to demonstrate the value of damaged property. Collect any receipts from the work you had done. If possible gather witness and police and fire department reports (especially in emergency damage situations). If an adjuster visits your home to observe damage, be present. Point out the less obvious damage and its repercussions. It may work to your advantage because the adjuster will take note. Just be polite during this step because you want them to want to help you. Politeness goes a long way in building credibility and establishing helpful contacts. Do not agree to the settlement when you get it unless you are satisfied with it and believe it is a fair assessment. When you reach common ground then you are all set to start completing renovations.
|
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.articlesbacklink.com/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites
