Right after you file
Your insurance company opens a claim and gives you a claim number. Keep it handy, because you'll use it when you call or send documents. You'll usually be assigned an adjuster, who is the person who reviews the loss.
While you wait, take reasonable steps to prevent more damage, like covering a broken window or shutting off water. Most policies expect this. Keep receipts for anything you buy, since those costs may be covered.
The adjuster's inspection
The adjuster may visit in person, ask for photos or video, or both. They look at the damage, ask how it happened, and compare it with your policy. It helps to have these ready:
- Photos and video of the damage before cleanup
- A list of damaged belongings, with ages and costs if you know them
- Receipts for emergency repairs
- Any contractor estimates you've already received
The estimate
After the inspection, the adjuster writes an estimate of what it should cost to repair or replace what was damaged. Read it carefully. If something is missing, or the prices look low compared with local contractor quotes, ask questions and send your own estimates. You can ask for the claim to be reviewed again.
Payment and your deductible
Covered losses are paid minus your deductible. Some policies pay in stages. For example, a policy with replacement cost coverage may first pay the actual cash value, which accounts for wear and age, and then pay the rest after repairs are done. Your policy explains how yours works.
When your mortgage company is on the check
If you have a mortgage, your lender usually has a financial interest in the home. Because of that, checks for large repairs to the house itself are often made out to you and your mortgage company together.
Contact your loan servicer early. They may endorse the check, hold the funds and release them in stages as work is completed, or ask for an inspection. Payments for your belongings or temporary housing usually come to you directly.
Repairs
You can usually choose your own contractor. Get written estimates, check licenses and reviews, and be careful with anyone who shows up uninvited after a storm. Don't sign over your insurance benefits without understanding what that means. Keep copies of invoices and photos of the finished work.
If you disagree
Start by talking with your adjuster and sending any missing information. If that doesn't resolve it, ask for a supervisor or a re-inspection. Your policy may also describe an appraisal process for settling disagreements over the amount. Your state's insurance department is another resource.