Steps to Ensure Smooth Insurance Claims

03/23/2010

Filing an insurance claim incorrectly can result in significant losses for some consumers.

The Insurance Information Institute offered advice for homeowners whose property may have been damaged by severe winter storms, wind and flooding. The first step is to get in touch with one's insurer, particularly for those who have had to evacuate their property. By providing a new phone number or address, consumers can ensure that their insurance company will be able to get in touch with them.

Individuals in this situation should also keep track of costs incurred from evacuating their property. These can include restaurant meals and hotel room expenses. Being wary of service providers may help to avoid scams.

"Don't be rushed into signing contracts. Instead, collect business cards, check references and get written estimates for the proposed job," the III said.

There are other steps consumers can take to ensure their claims are covered correctly. Taking photographs and detailed lists of losses can help substantiate their claims, while making temporary repairs will ensure that the damage does not get worse. Insurers will often cover the expenses for these repairs, which are usually less costly than the damage they prevent.

It is also recommended that homeowners periodically take inventory of their possessions in order to smoothly process claims.

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