Have you just suffered property damage and don’t know what to do? Do you need help making sure that your home, car or rental property is restored to its former condition?
For more information about a property damage insurance claim, check out this simple guide!
Property Damage Insurance Claim Process
To get the claims process started, you have to call your insurance company to report the damage. Once you have a claim number, your company will send an insurance adjuster to examine the property and determine the amount of money you will receive. The amount you get from the insurance company depends on your level of coverage and the extent of the damage.
If the property damage claim involves a vehicle collision, there will have to be a determination of who is at fault. Depending on the state where the accident takes place, there are several factors in determining who is legally responsible for the accident.
Regardless of who is found to be responsible for the property damage liability, you will have to pay your insurance deductible. This is usually between $250 and $500.
In the event of a burst pipe or fire, your insurance company will usually tell you to contact a damage mitigation specialist. This will prevent further destruction from happening. Depending on your policy, your insurance will likely cover any emergency repair costs.
Unless your policy covers your possessions, you may need to get further coverage to make sure everything is paid for. You will also need to provide a detailed list of any damaged items so the insurance company can provide you with a check for their cash value. You should know that luxury items like jewelry or family heirlooms will likely need extra policies if their value exceeds your level of coverage.
Repairs and Recovery
Once the damage to your home or property has been assessed, you will need to contact contractors to get quotes for any needed repair work. You should also make sure to get at least three quotes from different contractors to get the best possible deal.
Depending on how your insurance company wants to proceed, you will either receive a single check for all the repair work or pay the contractor directly. Before signing any paperwork, you should always check with your insurance provider first. If you sign a “direction to pay,” you are effectively giving control over the project to your contractor.
If you receive a check to cover the costs of repairs, you should make sure that all work is done to your satisfaction before paying. If your insurance company ends up signing off on shoddy work, you may be left holding the bag.
If your home or rental property is damaged to the point where it is unliveable, you will also receive additional living expenses or an ALE check. This money will help pay for things like meals and hotel rooms while your property is being fixed.
Happy Home and Happy Wallet
Property damage claims can seem scary and overwhelming, but there are simple solutions. All you need to do is read your policy, know your coverage level and follow your company’s process.
If you need help getting coverage or dealing with a property damage insurance claim, check out Global Claim Advisors today!