Ensure everyone's safety and contact emergency services if needed. For crimes like theft or vandalism, file a police report and get a copy. Document the damage with photos, videos, and a list of affected items – this will be crucial when filing your insurance claim. Then, contact a public adjuster for a professional inspection to assess the damage and guide you on your insurance coverage.

After documenting the damage, make temporary repairs to prevent further issues, such as covering broken windows or tarping a damaged roof. Keep all receipts for these repairs, as they may be reimbursable. Avoid making permanent repairs until after an adjuster has assessed the damage. If the damage involves significant debris or unsanitary conditions, consult your public adjuster before cleaning out to ensure nothing crucial is removed that could impact your claim.

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and your attorney immediately. To ensure the process is handled accurately and in your best interest, consider working with a public adjuster and attorney who assist in properly documenting damages, communicating with the insurer, and maximizing your claim.

A public adjuster can guide you through the process, ensuring you provide all the necessary information to support your claim. When filing, you'll need to have:

– Your policy number.

– Date and time of the incident.

– Detailed description of the damage.

– Photos and videos documenting the damage.

– Police report number (if applicable).

– Receipts or estimates for repairs.

Several factors influence the timeline, including the complexity of the damage, your insurer’s responsiveness, and the availability of contractors and supplies—particularly after natural disasters. Simple claims may take a few weeks, while more complex cases can take several months. Providing thorough documentation and working with a public adjuster can help speed up the process.

Yes, retain all damaged items until the adjuster has inspected them to accurately assess the extent of the damage and ensure appropriate compensation. If items are unsanitary or pose health risks document them thoroughly with photos and videos before disposal. Consult your public adjuster before discarding any items to confirm that proper documentation is sufficient for your claim.

Review your homeowners insurance policy, focusing on sections detailing covered perils and exclusions. Coverage details can typically be found in the declarations page and the policy booklet. If you need assistance interpreting your policy, we offer free policy reviews to help you understand your coverage.

Most homeowners’ insurance policies include a deductible, which is the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance covers the remaining costs. For instance, if your deductible is $1,000 and the total repair costs are $5,000, you'll be responsible for the first $1,000, and your insurance will cover the remaining $4,000. This amount is typically deducted from your claim payout.

When filing a homeowners insurance claim, avoid making statements that could unintentionally reduce your chances of receiving full compensation. Refrain from admitting fault, speculating about the cause of the damage, or downplaying the extent of the damage. Stick to factual, documented details and avoid providing opinions or unnecessary information. If you're unsure, consult with a public adjuster or attorney to guide you through the process and ensure your claim is presented accurately.

Yes, most homeowners insurance policies provide Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage, which reimburses costs such as hotel stays, meals, and other necessary expenses while your home is uninhabitable due to a covered loss. Be sure to save all receipts and records to ensure proper reimbursement.

Claims may be denied or underpaid for reasons like: The cause of damage isn’t covered by your policy. The claim exceeds policy limits. Insufficient documentation. Missing the required filing deadline. Unfortunately, some insurers may also unfairly underpay or deny claims to protect their bottom line. If you have concerns about your payout, contact an attorney to ensure you are rightfully compensated.

Yes, if you believe your claim was wrongfully denied or underpaid, you can appeal the decision. Start by reviewing your policy and the denial letter to understand the reasons for the denial. Then, gather additional evidence to support your claim and submit a written appeal to your insurer. Consulting with a public adjuster or an attorney can significantly strengthen your case and better your experience. Our lawyers help guide you through the appeals process, fighting for your rights and maximizing your chances of a favorable outcome.