How the Claims Process Works
After A Residential Fire
If
you have suffered a fire loss, an insurance claims representative
will be quickly called to review any damage and work out a fair and
equitable settlement according to the terms of the policy. If you
have taken some action to prevent further damage, such as boarding
up damaged windows and doors, moving personal property to a secure
area, or temporarily fixing holes in roofs, keep a record of your
costs. The cost of such repairs can become part of the claim.
If damage is extensive enough, the homeowners policy provides funds
if you have to rent equivalent temporary living space. The policy
also covers certain additional living expenses in excess of your normal
living expenses. Keep an accurate record of these expenses. To help
with these items, verify with your agent or claims representative
what limits are available for these expenses.
You may be asked to submit a property inventory of the entire household's
damaged or destroyed items. A pre-fire Household Inventory can be
of great value. Consider making a room-by-room listing or a videotape
of the contents of each room. Store this information in a bank safe
deposit box or someplace away from the premises. If you don't have
an inventory, a useful tip to help recall what was in the house is
to roughly diagram each room, then recall where items were situated.
The claims representative will probably take photos of the damage
and spend time with you discussing your coverages, property values,
and how the claim will be handled. If you have any questions during
the process, don't hesitate to ask. This is the time when it is important
to work with the claims representative so you will understand the
settlement.
Often, an estimate from a contractor is necessary. The claims representative
might meet with your contractor to discuss how the repairs will be
made, what materials to use, and the costs. When the costs and contractor
are agreed upon, payment for the repairs are often made jointly to
you and to the mortgage holder, if any, named on the policy. You may
also authorize direct payment to the contractor doing the repairs
or rebuilding the property.
If new developments arise, contact the claims representative as soon
as possible. It is important for all parties involved in the settlement
to share as much information as possible. In doing so, a fair and
satisfactory settlement can be reached. Your agent is also an excellent
resource and will often be actively involved in the claims process.
The insurance claim settlement process is designed for the prompt,
fair handling of claims. The system works well, and claims representatives
strive to be helpful, informative and fair.
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