How to file a claim: A step-by-step guide
This article provides general information about how homeowners can file an insurance claim, but Kin customers can file claims through the Claims Center.
Most home insurance claims involve the following steps (though yours may vary somewhat depending on where you live and the nature of your claim).
Mitigate the loss
One of your responsibilities during a loss is to keep damage from getting worse. For example, you need to shut off your water if a pipe bursts to minimize any more water damage in your house. Only mitigate losses if you can do so safely.
You should hold off on actual repairs until the claims adjuster has fully investigated your claim. It is possible to get the repairs done in emergency scenarios where your health or safety are at risk and provide a receipt for the work. In this case, an insurer will often want a licensed contractor, ideally within the Direct Repair Network, to provide an estimate and complete the work.
Call first responders
Not every claim calls for this, but if you experience theft or a fire, call the appropriate authorities. Paramedics can help address any injuries, while firefighters may be able to help with temporary shoring or other mitigation measures.
Contact your insurance company immediately
Kin customers have three 24/7 options for reporting claims:
Most insurance companies have ways to report claims online and by phone. Go to your insurance company’s website to get the correct information.
Whatever insurer you work with, be sure to have your policy number and a basic description of the loss handy. Your insurer needs to know the date of loss, the circumstances that caused the loss, and what damages you experienced.
Document damage
While your claims adjuster will gather facts about the cause and extent of the damage, your policy requires you to photograph or record and list the damage to your home and belongings – including the cause of loss. Doing this gives your adjuster a starting point.
It helps if you have a home inventory to consult during this process. A home inventory is simply a list of all your possessions. Putting one together now can certainly help should you ever have to file a claim.
Work with your claims adjuster
Once you report a claim, you'll be assigned a claims adjuster to your claim. They will evaluate your loss, investigate the damage, and more. Be prepared to answer their questions about the loss. Provide the adjuster with your home inventory and photos of lost items so they can add it to the file.
Once the claim adjuster comes to inspect the damage, they will create a loss report. How long this might take to complete depends on your state law and the complexity of your claim. In some states, you may receive a Claims Bill of Rights from your insurance company. Review it so you know your rights and the claims timeline.
Get an estimate of the damage
The adjuster can guide you on how to turn in receipts for items and estimates for damage repairs. Submit these to the adjuster as you get them.
In some situations, your insurance company may invoke the option to repair provision in your policy. This puts the responsibility for your repairs on your insurer.
Get your claims payment
Once your claims adjuster determines coverage for your loss, they will issue payment based on your policy, Then it’s your responsibility to get repairs underway. Remember too that any claims payment are subject to your deductible.
Frequently asked questions about home insurance claims
Take a look at our answers for some common questions about filing claims.
What are the most common home insurance claims?
According to the Insurance Information Institute, the most common cause of home insurance claims – by far – is property damage. The most frequent causes include wind and hail, fire and lightning, and water damage.
How can I prevent home insurance claims?
There are many steps you can take to prevent home insurance claims. In addition to securing your property – installing smoke detectors and a home security system – you can also take steps to mitigate other types of damage.
When should I file a home insurance claim?
You’re required to file a claim when you suffer a loss, and it’s important to file a first notice of loss with your insurer as soon as possible. However, whether you ultimately decide to file a claim depends on a number of factors including the total cost to repair any damage and the amount of your deductible.
How are home insurance claims paid?
Home insurance claims are typically paid by check or direct deposit once a claims adjuster has reviewed your claim, determined coverage, and assessed the value of any covered damage.
