Navigating the insurance claims process in 5 simple steps
You hope it never happens, but sometimes things go awry. You’ve been hit with a loss—what’s next? Who do you reach out to first? What are your obligations? The claims process can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the help of your claims professionals, you can get the support you need to recover and keep your business running. They can walk you through the crucial steps that follow.
What is an insurance claim?
An insurance claim is a formal request made by a policyholder to their insurer to receive financial compensation or coverage for a loss or damage covered by their insurance policy. When an insured event occurs, such as an accident, theft, natural disaster, illness, or injury, the policyholder submits a claim to their insurance provider to recover the financial losses or expenses incurred because of the event.
Navigating the 5 steps
The insurance claim process typically involves five main stages, from the moment you report your loss to receiving a resolution. You can prepare for the process by gathering relevant documents. If possible, attach proofs of purchase, receipts, police reports, owner’s manuals, and warranties for lost or damaged items.
Take photos of any damaged or destroyed items. Review your files for photos of any stolen items.Keep notes and be as detailed as possible when documenting damage and providing information.Keep damaged items unless they are dangerous or pose a health hazard. Confirm with your insurer before disposing of damaged property.Keep all receipts related to cleanup.
Your insurance claim process, step-by-step
Connect with your broker
Your broker is your primary contact when it comes to your insurance policy – they should understand your situation and how to proceed. Once you give your broker a detailed list of all the items that were damaged or lost, and any photos or videos that help to explain the circumstances, an adjuster will follow up with you to continue the claims process.
Claim investigation begins
After the claim has been reported, it will need to be investigated by an adjuster to determine the amount of loss or damages covered by your insurance policy. The adjuster will also identify any liable parties, and you can help the process by providing any witness information or other parties’ contact information.
Policy review
Once the investigation is complete, the adjuster will go through your policy carefully to determine what is and isn’t covered under your policy and inform you of any applicable deductibles that may apply to your case.
Damage evaluation
In order to accurately evaluate the extent of the damage, your insurance adjuster may hire appraisers, engineers, or contractors to lend their expert advice. Once the evaluation is complete, your adjuster will provide you with a list of preferred vendors to help with repairs. You’re not obligated to hire these vendors, but it can save you a good deal of time and research.
Payment is arranged
After repairs have been completed and lost or damaged items have been replaced, your adjuster will contact you regarding settlement of your claim and payment. The amount of time it takes to receive payment will depend on the complexity and severity of your situation.
Protect yourself with the right support
Every claim is different, and although the claims process can vary slightly according to the situation, your adjuster will devote the time and attention it takes to resolve your case. If you run into questions or concerns during the claims process, you can always contact us at 1.855.621.6262. For more information on how we can assist, visit our Submit a Claim page.
