Should I File A Property Damage Claim?
Property damage is defined by Law.Com as an “injury to real or personal property through another’s negligence, willful destruction, or by some act of nature.” Personal property is a broad term. It covers automobiles, fences or walls, any part of your home, or your belongings. Homeowners insurance is there to help you recover from unexpected disasters, but how do you know when to claim?
Here are three simple questions that will help you decide.
Question 1: Does My Policy Cover My Loss?
Your first step in deciding whether or not to file a property damage claim is to check your policy document. Read it carefully. Then, identify whether what you’ve experienced can be claimed.
Question 2: How Much Is My Deductible?
In some cases, the cost of repairs will be lower than the deductible you’re required to pay by your insurance company. In this case, it makes more sense to cover the cost of the repairs yourself.
Question 3: Are There Any Special Limitations Clauses?
Check your policy for any special limits that apply to the property you’d like to file for damages on. Things like collectibles, valuables, or comic books may be under special limits that could make claiming not worthwhile.
3 Steps To Submit A Property Damage Claim
Follow these steps when submitting a property damage claim to your insurance company.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Insurance contracts state that this needs to be done soon after the damage occurs. Failure to report an incident within your insurance company’s time-limit could negate your ability to claim. As soon as you’ve made contact with your insurance company, the claims process will start. They will send forms for you to fill out in as much detail as possible.
Secure The Property
You want to make sure that no further damage can happen to your property and that nobody else gets injured on site after the initial event has taken place.
Consider Hiring An Adjuster
Once your claim is submitted, an adjuster from your insurance company will be assigned to oversee your case. As an employee of the insurance company, the adjuster will be focused on taking care of the insurance company’s best interests, not yours. You are well within your rights to hire a public adjuster who will have your best interest at heart and will do so from a background of claims experience and an understanding of insurance jargon and procedures.
When To Hire A Public Adjuster – 4 Clear Signs
As an insured policyholder, you are well within your rights to hire your own adjuster to assist you with filing and lodging your claim. Here are four instances where hiring a public adjuster will be to your advantage.
1. Complicated Claims
Without question, you will benefit from the expertise of a public adjuster if your claim is complex. Insurance companies employ experts; fully versed in all the intricacies of your policy. With a public adjuster working with you on your claim, you too will have an expert to ensure that you receive a better insurance settlement for the losses you’ve suffered
2. If You Are Unfamiliar With The Language Used In Your Policy
Policies are written in legal-speak. This can make them difficult to understand. You’ll be prepared with a public adjuster. Additionally, you’ll know that there are no surprises hidden in sub-clauses. Public adjusters have a wealth of property damage claim experience and will ensure that you get what you need from your claim settlement.
3. Short On Time? A Public Assessor May Be Your Answer
Suffering loss or damage to your property is stressful, emotionally taxing, and disruptive. The assistance of a public adjuster to prove what the insurance company owes you will free you to continue fulfilling your responsibilities and getting your business or home back on track.
4. Dealing With An Insurance Company That Is Slow Or Unresponsive
Insurance claims can take time and are complex by nature. However, if you feel that your insurance company is neglecting you, either in the response time or by not adequately assessing your claim, you may want to consider hiring a public adjuster.
Help To Recoup Your Losses
Getting a sufficient insurance payout after a damage claim doesn’t erase the fact that you’ve suffered a loss. However, it does help you get back on your feet again. We are here to help you get the most from your insurance claim. Contact us today at 877-561-2524 to hire an Atlantic Coast Public Adjustor. Remember, we’re on your side.