Homeowners Claim Checklist

Claim Recovery Checklist
Damage to your home can stressful, upsetting and, even hazardous. The following key steps from The Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) can help homeowners recover safely following damage to their property.

Protect yourself

Always be careful when entering a damaged building. If there is serious structural damage, contact local officials before entering. Report downed power lines or gas leaks. Keep electricity turned off if the building has been flooded.

Protect your property

Take reasonable steps to protect your property from further damage. This could mean boarding up windows and salvaging undamaged items. Contact your Independent Insurance Agent to find out what is covered in terms of protection.

Report the loss as soon as possible

Contact your Independent Insurance Agent as soon as possible. Provide a general description of the damage and have your policy number handy if possible. Write down the adjuster's name, phone number and work schedule as soon as you have them.
Prepare a list. Keep damaged items or portions of them until the claim adjuster has visited, and consider photographing or videotaping the damage to document your claim. Prepare a list of damaged or lost items for your adjuster.

Keep receipts

If you need to relocate, keep records and receipts for all additional expenses. Most policies cover emergency living arrangements.

Return claim forms

After you've reported your claim, watch for claims forms. Fill out and return the forms as soon as possible. If you do not understand the process, be sure to ask questions and write down the explanation.


Cleanup

When starting the cleanup process, be careful, and use protective eyewear and gloves if available.

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