Knowing how to file an insurance claim before an emergency can reduce stress and help you recover your losses faster. In this guide, we'll walk through the steps of filing a home insurance claim, what to expect during the process, and tips for maximizing your claim payout.
The Importance of Being Prepared for Home Insurance Claims
Unfortunately, many homeowners are frustrated by the claims process due to documentation requirements that are hard to meet after an incident. To help protect your investment, here are some ways to prepare in advance so you're ready if you need to file a claim.
Preparing Before an Emergency
Many homeowners lack the documentation needed to file an effective home insurance claim. Without this information, proving the value of lost belongings becomes challenging, and you may receive a lower payout. Take these precautionary measures to ensure you are prepared to file a claim if needed.

Prepare an emergency “go” bag. Each member in your household should have a bag that is quick and easy to grab in the event of an emergency. Store the bags in a quickly accessible spot. For a list of supplies to add to your bag, check out ready.gov’s Build a Kit page.
Make a list of all of your high-value items. Take inventory of high-value items like electronics, appliances, and jewelry. Record each item's value, and keep a copy of this list in your "go" bag. For added security, take a photo of the list and store it on your phone. Consider consulting your insurance agent to confirm that your personal property coverage is sufficient. If you’ve experienced a loss, write down everything you remember as soon as possible, even if it’s incomplete. This can still be helpful during the claims process. It may not be as accurate, but it will still be helpful.
Review your home insurance policy. Check your policy’s coverage amounts annually to ensure they match your needs. If you’re uncertain, ask your local insurance agent to review the policy with you. Coverage A, Dwelling coverage is essential, as it defines the amount available to replace your home’s structure in case of a total loss.
Steps to File a Claim
Assess the damage, take precautionary actions, and contact emergency services if needed. After an incident, ensure everyone is safe first. Then, take photos of the damage and gather contact information of any parties involved. 💡If you can, secure the area (e.g., board up windows) to prevent further damage or theft.
File a claim through your insurance company’s claims department. File your claim directly through the claims department. Your local insurance agent can assist, though you may need to speak directly with the insurance company for verification. 💡If your agent is unavailable and you do not have your insurance documents nearby, Google your insurance company’s name and “claims phone number” to find their contact information.
Await the claims adjuster’s instructions. Each claim process varies depending on the type of loss. You’ll likely receive instructions from a claims adjuster on next steps. 💡If you disagree with their estimate, you can provide evidence like receipts or comparable item values to negotiate. This is when the list you developed earlier can come in handy!
Contact professionals to repair the damages according to your adjuster’s guidelines. Some may bill your insurance company directly, while others may invoice you first. 💡Choose contractors who provide detailed, line-item estimates, as many insurers require this level of detail for payout. If you're unsure who to contact, we have recommendations for local, trusted contractors in Wallowa County.
We're Here to Support You
The claims process can be complex, but preparation makes it more manageable. By following these steps, you’ll be better equipped to handle the process efficiently. For questions about your coverage or help navigating a claim, don’t hesitate to contact us, your local insurance agency in Enterprise, OR.
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