Homeowners and Renters Claims Tips

1. Promptly notify your insurance company or agent of your loss.
2. Make a detailed list and description of the damage, including photographs if possible. Collect your canceled checks, receipts and other documents to help the adjuster set a value on damaged or destroyed property.
3. Review your coverage. You might not be aware, for example, that your homeowners or renters policy pays for debris removal and for emergency housing and living expenses if your loss forces you to move temporarily. If you can't find your policy, ask your agent or company for a copy.
4. Do not make permanent repairs before an insurance adjuster inspects your home. Make only temporary repairs to protect your home from looting or further damage. The insurance company might deny your claim if you make permanent repairs before the adjuster inspects the damage.
5. If damage in your area is extensive, take extra steps to help your insurance company's adjuster find you. Make sure your address is visible from the street. Paint your insurer's name, policy number and temporary address on a plywood sign.
6. If possible, be present during the insurance adjuster's inspection and take notes. You might want your own contractor/builder present to represent your interests. Take notes on all contacts with your insurance company and adjuster. Your chance of getting a satisfactory settlement improves when you are well prepared with the facts. Write down names, dates, and conversations. Remember, good records help your cause in the event you legally contest your insurance company's decision, or dispute it with the Department of Insurance.
7. Don't agree to a final claim settlement until you are satisfied that it is fair. You're entitled to obtain independent estimates if you wish.
8. After major claims events (disasters, storms etc), "public adjusters" offer to help victims pursue their insurance claims--for a price. You probably don't need a public adjuster, but if you hire one, be sure about the fee. Usually, it's a percentage of your claim payment.
9. Get more than one bid for construction or repair work. Try to use a local contractor with a good reputation. Large claims events like storms often attract fly-by-night operators who do shoddy work or skip town after receiving advance payments.

Tips courtesy of the Texas Department of Insurance