When you are claiming on your home insurance policy, the very first thing that you must do is make the insurance company aware that you are preparing to make a claim. Your insurance agent will guide you through all the steps that you must then take. It is a good idea to keep their contact details handy, in case you cannot get back into your home for one reason or another.
It is also a good idea to keep a record of all your communications with the insurance company regarding the claim, in case you have to enter into a dispute with them later.
1. It is also a good idea to keep a written record of everything that is damaged or missing, and keep this about your person so that you can add to it if you notice anything else that is missing or damaged.
2. You should also make any temporary repairs that you deem necessary, as it is up to you to prevent the damage to your property from getting worse. For instance, if you have a leak, then you might want to put a bucket under it to prevent further water damage to your property. If you need to buy anything in order to do this, be sure to keep receipts.
3. Go around the property with everyone that lives there and take note of anything that anyone notices is missing or damaged. If your policy includes new for old replacement cover, then you will be entitled to brand new replacements for your old items, so even if something was on its way out, such as an old sofa or TV, be sure to mention it.
4. It can take a little bit of time to process an insurance claim, so be patient. If your claim is not serious, it may take quite a long time to process as most insurance firms deal with claims on a priority, rather than a first come first served, basis.
5. While your claim is being processed, get in touch with your agent on a regular basis to check on the progress of your claim. If you are not happy with your insurer for any reason, then you are well within your rights to file a complaint with the financial ombudsman service, an independent body set up by the government to ensure that consumers do not get a raw deal from the financial service sector.
If you are not allowed or are unable to use your home, then you may be entitled to money for alternative accommodation while your claim is being processed if your policy includes loss of use coverage.
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