1. Take as many photos as you possibly can of your property and personal belongings as soon as possible.We recommend a minimum of 100 photos. During this stressful time, it will be impossible to remember everything. These photos will help you, your contractor, and insurance adjuster to process your claim as quickly and as accurately as possible.
2. Contact your insurance agent to report your loss. As soon as your claim is field, you will have an adjuster assigned to your claim process.
3. Hire a reputable contractor experienced in fire loss.Your insurance company may recommend a contractor, but it is your right to choose any contractor you would like. Interview several contractors and choose the one you are most comfortable with. An experienced contractor will be invaluable in helping you work through and settle your claim. They will start providing customer service Day 1. This is the MOST important step to get you back in your home as soon as possible.
4. Minimize your loss. After a loss, it is not uncommon to hear issues such as holes in your roof, standing water, and security issues. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to make sure these issues are not neglected causing further damage to the property. Your adjuster can assist with hiring emergency services dispatched to help resolve these issues.
5. Document everything! Making written and electronic notes will help you keep everything organized and prove helpful to look back on throughout the process. Notes will also protect your interest in returning your building to its pre-loss condition. Examples of documentation would be:
1. Receipts for goods/supplies purchased
2. How much time you are spending working through the claim process
3. Beginning/ending dates of specific steps of the process
