Accidents happen around the home all the time. This includes everything from leaky water heaters flooding the basement to robberies.
Fortunately, most of us carry homeowners insurance. We pay monthly premiums so our properties and personal possessions are protected during situations like these. When something bad happens, we file a claim to get compensated for anything that was lost, damaged, destroyed, or stolen.
From here, a home insurance adjuster from the insurance company will come to your property to assess your claim. Sometimes, this ends well and you get the amount of money you need to replace or repair anything that was affected in the accident.
However, homeowners can also find themselves on the other end of the spectrum. Their insurance provider could offer them far too little money or deny their claim entirely.
The question is, how do you deal with insurance company adjusters to ensure you get the compensation you deserve? Keep reading for everything you need to know.
Document Everything
First, and foremost, it’s important to document everything that happened so you can provide an accurate and detailed account of events. We recommend writing everything down or recording an audio or video log on your phone.
You need to document what happened when it happened. If possible, determine why the event happened as well.
Then, create an inventory of everything that was damaged, destroyed, or stolen. You also need to document any damages to your property.
Gather Evidence of Your Claim
A home insurance adjuster will also need to see evidence of your claims. We recommend taking photos and videos of everything that was affected by the accident or robbery.
Obviously, if things were stolen, you can’t take new pictures of them. In this case, look for proof of your purchase. This could include receipts or old pictures that have the item in them.
Do Your Own Cost Evaluation of the Damages
Next, to accurately file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance, you need to assess the cost of your damages and/or missing items. You’ll need to look back at how much you paid for those items or how much it would cost to replace them today.
For damaged property, reach out to local contractors to determine how much it would cost for repairs and renovations. You need to have an idea of these costs before you meet the home insurance adjuster.
Review Your Insurance Policy
Finally, take an in-depth look at your home insurance policy to see what is and isn’t covered by your insurance company. For example, many policies don’t automatically cover flood damages.
If you know your damages are supposed to be covered and your claim is being denied or short-changed, hire a homeowners insurance claim denial attorney. They can work with you to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Trying to stand up to your insurance company by yourself is ill-advised.
Are You Prepared to Deal With a Home Insurance Adjuster?
Are you getting ready to meet with a home insurance adjuster? If some, follow the tips listed above to personally verify your compensatory needs. Don’t let your homeowner’s insurance company walk all over you.
Hopefully, everything will go well. Otherwise, find an attorney to help you with your claim.
And if you’re looking for more homeowner advice or legal suggestions, you’re in the right place. Take a look through the rest of our blog before you go to find the information you need to make your life better.
