When something goes wrong and you need to file a homeowners insurance claim, the last thing you want is an unnecessary hassle. There’s plenty of stress dealing with the loss as it is. Having proper insurance coverage in place can help decrease that stress level and increase the chances of you getting the claim results you expect from your insurance company.
One of the best ways to simplify your home insurance claims is to understand what’s needed at the time of the loss. In understanding what will be asked for, you can get all of the proper documentation and information in place for a smoother settlement process.
Showing Proof of Ownership and Proof of Loss
One of the first things your insurance company will ask you for when you file a claim is proof of ownership and proof of loss.
Proof of ownership is any documentation that shows you are the rightful owner of the damaged property or item. This can include registration documents, receipts, or bank statements. Various items will have various documents to prove ownership.
Proof of loss is any documentation that shows what has been damaged and to what extent. This requires that you know what’s been stolen or damaged, and how much they were worth at the time of theft or disaster.
Creating Your Home Inventory
Planning ahead can help you prove ownership and demonstrate the extent of the loss. You don’t need to account for every bobby pin or kitchen pan in your home inventory, but you do need to show your major personal belongings. Creating a home inventory doesn’t have to be daunting either. It can go quickly when you recognize what you’re documenting.
First, choose items that you would want to have replaced in the event of a disaster. Going room by room is helpful in this process. Once you’ve selected an item, write down:
- The item’s value
- The date you bought it
- Any documentation to show proof of ownership
- Serial number, make or model of the item
Creating a Visual Inventory
In addition to noting the data behind your belongings, it’s a good idea to note the condition it’s in. Oftentimes, the fastest, easiest, and best way to do this is visual documentation.
Visual inventory doesn’t have to look professional. It simply has to show your items in your home and their current condition. A visual inventory can be taken using the video function on your phone, and have you narrating each room and/or item as you go along.
Not All Items Are Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance
It’s important to note that not all items are covered through homeowner’s insurance. Each policy is different. Talking to your insurance agent in Camdenton will help you better understand what’s covered. Knowing what’s covered will help avoid any confusion when or if you need to file a homeowner’s insurance claim.
We will be happy to go through your homeowner’s insurance policy and let you know what’s covered and what is not. Contact us to schedule a consultation and review your policy before you need to file a claim.
