How to file a homeowners insurance claim

Filing a home insurance claim starts with three immediate steps: document the damage, do what you can to safely prevent further issues (like tarping a leaky roof), and call your insurance company right away. While every insurer has its own process, the basic path from damage to repair is usually the same. Being proactive and staying organized from day one can help you avoid delays, denied claims, or unexpected out-of-pocket costs. 

How to prepare to file a home insurance claim

Knowing how to file a home insurance claim the right way can make a big difference in how smoothly it goes. Before you officially begin the process, take a moment to assess the situation, asking yourself:

• Is the damage covered under my policy? Within your policy documents, check your declarations page, exclusions, and endorsements for details on what is and is not covered.

• Will the cost of repairs likely exceed my deductible? Your deductibles should also be listed on your declarations page.

• Have you filed any other claims in the past three years? Insurance companies generally review your claims history as a factor in determining the cost of your policy (known as your premium) and your eligibility for coverage. 

If you’re having trouble locating your policy documents or the information you need about your coverage, deductibles, and claim history, you can reach out to your insurance company for help.

How to file a home insurance claim step by step

Take the following steps to file a homeowners insurance claim.

1. Prevent further issues

Your first priority is safety. If the damage makes your home unsafe, such as after a fire, storm, or major water leak, leave the property and contact emergency services if needed.

Once it’s safe:

• Shut off the water, electricity, or gas, if necessary

• Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage

• Cover broken windows or roof openings

• Remove standing water if possible

Most policies expect you to prevent further damage, but hold off on permanent fixes until your insurer gives you the okay. Be sure to keep all receipts for any materials or labor used for temporary repairs.

2. Document the damage

Thorough documentation is one of the most important parts of the claims process.

Be sure to:

• Take clear photos and videos (wide shots and close-ups) of all damage

• Make a written list of damaged items

• Note dates, times, and what caused the damage

• Do not throw anything away until the insurance company advises you to

If personal belongings were damaged or stolen, include descriptions, estimated values, purchase dates, receipts, and identifying information like serial numbers if possible. The more detail you provide, the smoother the claim is likely to go.

3. Contact your insurance company

Once the situation is under control, contact your insurance company to start the claim. You can usually file online, through a mobile app, or by phone.

When you report the claim, you’ll receive a claim number and instructions for next steps. Ask about timelines, required documents, and when a claims adjuster will be assigned.

4. Submit required paperwork

Your insurer will likely ask for specific documentation to assess and verify your claim, such as:

• A proof of loss form

• Photos or videos of the damage

• Receipts for emergency repairs

• A list of damaged, lost, or stolen items

Submit the paperwork as quickly and accurately as possible. Missing or incomplete documents are a common cause of claim delays or denials.

5. Work with the insurance adjuster

An insurance adjuster will call you to discuss the claim and ask questions. They may visit your home to inspect the damage. Their role is to assess the loss, determine if the claim is valid, and decide how much the insurer will pay based on your policy.

During the inspection:

• Be present if possible

• Point out all damage, even minor issues

• Share your documentation and photos

• Ask questions about the claims process

6. Get repair estimates

Your insurance company likely has a list of contractors you can choose from, but you can also get independent repair estimates to help ensure you’re being fairly compensated.

You may need quotes from multiple companies, including licensed contractors, specialized repair professionals, and restoration companies in the event of fire, smoke, water, or mold damage.

Get several estimates to compare to the claims adjuster’s assessment. If there’s a significant difference, you can submit the estimates to your insurer for review.

7. Review and negotiate the settlement

Once your insurer makes a settlement offer, look over it carefully. Make sure it:

• Covers all documented damage

• Pays to replace items at today's prices (if your policy includes this type of coverage; otherwise, depreciation may be factored in)

• Correctly applies your deductible

• Refunds you for what you spent on emergency repairs

If it seems too low, you can negotiate. Provide supporting documentation, like contractor estimates, additional photos, or videos. Settlement offers are often adjustable if you have the right evidence to back up your claim.

8. Repair and rebuild

Once you and the insurance company agree to a settlement offer, it’s time to repair and rebuild. Schedule your repairs and take photos of the process. Keep all receipts and invoices.

Some policies pay claims in stages, especially if you have replacement cost coverage. Your insurer will issue an initial payment, then pay the remainder once repairs are completed. Make sure you understand how the payment structure works.

Tips to make the claims process go smoothly 

Filing a home insurance claim can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with damage to your home, stress, and uncertainty about what comes next. Whether it’s storm damage, a fire, theft, or something else, there are several things you can do to make the process go as smoothly as possible. 

File promptly

Filing a claim right away helps you start repairing, rebuilding, or replacing damaged items sooner. Acting quickly also helps your adjuster perform a more accurate damage analysis and helps you stay within your policy’s required deadlines.

Keep a home inventory

Creating a home inventory, including photos, receipts, and serial numbers when available, can speed up the claims process and help you receive fair compensation. Photos and videos are an easy and effective way to create a home inventory, but you can also do so with a pen and paper. 

Read your policy in advance

Understanding your policy coverage before you need it can help you respond quickly in the event of an incident. Pay close attention to policy exclusions, limits, and deductibles so you know what to expect. 

Stay organized and keep all claim documentation

According to the Insurance Information Institute, keeping a detailed log of all communication with your insurance adjuster is one of the most effective ways to avoid delays. Additionally, keep track of all pertinent information and documentation, including the events that led to the claim, photos or videos of the damage, and repair or rebuilding quotes. You can create a specific file or folder on your computer or maintain a hard copy of relevant information in a central location.

Frequently asked questions

How soon should I file a home insurance claim?

As soon as possible after the damage occurs. Delays can complicate investigations and may affect coverage and claim payouts.

What information do I need to provide when filing a claim?

You’ll typically need to provide details about the incident, photos or videos, a list of damaged items, and receipts for emergency repairs.

Will filing a home insurance claim make my premium go up?

It can. Not all claims lead to increases, but larger or multiple claims filed within a short period usually cause premiums to rise.

How does your deductible impact home insurance claims?

Your deductible is the amount of damage you agree to cover out of pocket in the event of a qualifying claim. Instead of submitting a deductible payment to your insurance company, insurers typically subtract your policy’s deductible amount from the claim payout. 

How long does it take to receive payment after filing a claim?

If your claim is simple and straightforward, you may receive payment within days or weeks of filing a claim. More complex claims, especially involving widespread disasters, can take months.

Is there a time limit to report damage or file a claim?

Yes. Homeowners insurance policies typically have reporting deadlines that vary by provider. To avoid missing these windows, check your policy or contact your agent immediately after a loss to confirm how much time you have to file.