When your home suffers damage, you’ll likely find yourself worried about the cost of repairing it. In many instances, this can be tens, perhaps even hundreds, of thousands of dollars. Although that can be incredibly stressful to think about, you might breathe a sigh of relief knowing that you’re protected by your insurance policy.
Yet, all too often homeowners run into issues with their insurance claims. In some instances, the insurance company drags its feet in paying out a claim, while in others it outright denies claims that should otherwise be paid. Therefore, as you enter the claims process, you need to know how to navigate it as effectively as possible. This includes avoiding devastating mistakes that could cost you your claim.
Common mistakes when dealing with homeowner’s insurance
Although we wish the insurance policy was simple, it isn’t. To make it as smooth as possible and increase your chances of recovering the financial resources you need, though, you have to avoid making errors. Here are some of the most common that you’ll want to be on the lookout for:
- Inadequately documenting property damage: When your home is damaged, you need to take detailed photographs of the damage, write a description of the damage, and record the cost to repair it. If you don’t, then you might be cut short on your claim.
- Repairing the home too quickly: In the aftermath of the event that left your home damaged, you might be tempted to fix the damage as quickly as possible. However doing so can make it hard for the insurance adjuster or engineer to see the true extent of the damage that was caused. So, while you might need to make some temporary repairs to restore functionality, avoid permanent repairs until after the insurance company has visited you.
- Getting rid of damaged property: If you throw out damaged property that’s covered by your insurance policy, then it’s going to be hard for you to argue that you should be compensated for those losses. Therefore, keep all damaged property until your claim is resolved.
- Not tracking additional living expenses: The damage caused to your home might require you to stay at a hotel and accumulate other costs that you otherwise wouldn’t have to endure. These expenses might be compensable under your insurance policy, but your provider is going to be hesitant to fork over payment for them if you can’t prove that those costs were incurred.
- Not knowing your policy: Before you head into any negotiations with your insurance company, you have to know the details of your insurance coverage. Only then will you know where you can push to get what you deserve?
- Accepting a low settlement offer: Insurance companies want to protect their profits, which is why they try to settle claims for less than they’re worth. Although you might be eager to get cash on hand, repair your home, and move on with your life, make sure you’re not taking a settlement that leaves you with less than you deserve.
Don’t derail your insurance claim
The insurance claims process is complicated. As a result, thorough preparation is your best bet to building the solid claim that you need to succeed. While this includes submitting a sound claim, it also means knowing the law and how to avoid common mistakes that destroy your ability to recover the compensation you need. That’s why many homeowners seek out legal assistance when handling these matters.
If you want to know more about the insurance claims process and some of the issues that can arise, then please continue to read our blog and browse our website.