How to File A Home Insurance Claim For The Auburn, Lewiston & Turner, ME Areas

Things happen, some of which you can’t prevent. Whether Mother Nature has wreaked havoc of your home, someone gets injured on your property, or we’ve been the victim of a burglary, home insurance can help you stay covered. If you need to file a claim, it is important to read over your policy, so you know exactly what to do or call your agent directly. The following list includes some of the steps you may need/want to take. 

• Report crime to police: If your home has been burglarized, contact your local police department, obtain a police report and the police officers name for documentation should you need it later in the process.
• Contact insurance agent immediately: Check what your policy coverage is and get all of your questions answered regarding your claim and timelines.
• Fill out claim forms: If you are proceeding with a claim, your insurance agent will help you with timelines. Send in all necessary forms as soon as possible to avoid delays. 
• Have insurance adjuster inspect damage: A claims adjusted will come out to your home to assess the damage. Before the adjuster visits your home, make a list of damaged items and take pictures/video to make the process speedier. Do not throw out damaged items until the adjuster visited your home. 
• Make temporary repairs: You can make repairs, but do not throw out damaged items until the adjuster visited your home. Save receipts of the replacement items.
• Prepare a list of lost/damaged items: Make a list of damaged items, one for you and one for the adjuster. Also, give the adjuster copies of receipts from damaged items.
• Keep receipts if you need to relocate: If the damage to your home requires you to stay somewhere while repairs are being made, keep receipts as proof.