Making a Property Insurance Claim is a rare occurrence for commercial or residential customers. Most of us pay into a premium for years, decades even, and never have to claim. So, when you’re unfortunate enough to have to dig out the paperwork and pick up the phone, it can be a minefield of red tape, jargon, and seemingly wasted time. That’s where we come in.
During our 15 years in business, we’ve seen and done almost everything ’insurance’, as you’d expect! Here’s our round-up of top tips for a successful property insurance repair claim to share with your clients:
Get Help From a Loss Assessor
Taking on a home insurance provider for a large claim can be daunting. A loss assessor working on your client’s behalf speeds things up, ensures nothing is missed and the policy T&Cs are read and understood!
Report the Claim as Soon as Possible
If your client is unsure whether to claim before knowing repair costs, they should at least advise their insurer of a potential claim. This speeds things up if they decide to go ahead.
Understand What the Insurance Covers
If unsure about the cause of damage, flip the policy around and check the perils that are covered – does the damage fall into any of these categories?
Quick Tip
Ideally the process starts with the Insurance Broker. If you’d like us to, we can smooth the process for you and your clients by acting on their behalf.
Don’t Throw Damaged Items Away
…Unless they are a health hazard (rotting food), as the insurer may want to inspect them.
Arrange Temporary Repairs
If necessary, to stop damage getting worse, call the insurer emergency helpline advice. Keep any receipts which will form part of the claim, going forwards.
Take Photographs and Videos
For any claim, you need to detail what’s happened, with photo or video evidence of damage to property/contents/possessions, plus when you discovered it.
Quick Tip
If the roof is leaking but there hasn’t been a storm recently then it’s unlikely due to storm damage, so it won’t be covered. Also check the insurer’s definition of ‘storm’ which usually relates to wind speed.
Remember, Home Insurance Is Not a Maintenance Contract!
It is designed to cover risks such as flood, storm damage, fire and theft. It will not cover problems from wear and tear or poor maintenance!
Decide if It Is Worth Making a Home Insurance Claim
Where it wouldn’t break the bank to fund repairs or replacements themselves, clients may decide against making a claim.
Be Honest
Honesty is always the best policy when making a claim – avoid exaggeration. If the insurer finds any part of a claim has been dishonest, they could decline the whole claim.
Don’t Be Pressured to Accept the First Offer Insurers Make
If the scope of work or cash settlement amount being offered by the insurer is inadequate, seek expert advice, reports or alternative quotes from other building firms.
You Can Use Your Own Contractor
Your client can use their own preferred contractor, but all quotes must be approved by the insurance company before they start work.
For further support and advice on making a property claim, contact us today on 01254 665 333 today.