Most homeowners file a claim only a few times in their lives, so the process feels unfamiliar exactly when you are under stress. Industry data shows why it pays to be prepared. According to the Insurance Information Institute, citing ISO/Verisk data, there were 5.33 homeowners claims per 100 insured homes in 2023 and the average claim paid was $20,062. Over 2019 to 2023, wind and hail caused the most claims, while fire and lightning claims were the most expensive, averaging $88,170.
1. Make everyone safe and stop further damage
If there is a fire, gas leak or structural risk, leave and call emergency services first. Once it is safe, take reasonable steps to prevent more damage: shut off water, cover a broken roof with a tarp, board up windows. Policies require you to protect the property from further loss, and the NAIC notes that the cost of these temporary repairs is typically reimbursed when the loss is covered. Keep every receipt. Do not start permanent repairs before the insurer has seen the damage, unless it agrees.
2. Document everything before cleaning up
- Take photos and video of every damaged room, the outside of the house and the source of the damage.
- List damaged and lost belongings with approximate age and price. A home inventory made before the loss is ideal; the NAIC offers a free home inventory app.
- Keep damaged items, if practical, so the adjuster can inspect them.
3. Report the claim promptly
Call your insurer or agent, or use the online portal or app. The NAIC points out that most insurers set deadlines for reporting claims, so report as soon as possible. Have your policy number, a description of what happened, the date and time, and your photos ready. Write down the claim number and the adjuster's name. If your home and car are insured with different companies and both were damaged, file with each insurer.
4. Understand your coverage while you wait
| Part of the policy | What it pays for |
|---|---|
| Dwelling (Coverage A) | The structure of the house |
| Other structures (B) | Detached garage, fence, shed |
| Personal property (C) | Furniture, clothing, electronics |
| Loss of use (D) | Additional living expenses while the home is uninhabitable |
| Liability and medical payments | Injuries to others and damage you cause |
Check two things early. First, the deductible: many policies in storm-prone areas have a separate percentage deductible for wind or hurricane losses. Second, whether you have replacement cost or actual cash value coverage. Actual cash value deducts depreciation; replacement cost pays to repair or replace with new materials, often in two steps (depreciation is released after the work is done). Standard homeowners policies exclude flood and earthquake, which need separate coverage.
5. Additional living expenses
If you cannot live in the home after a covered loss, the loss-of-use coverage pays additional living expenses (ALE): the increase over your normal costs, such as a hotel or rental and extra meal costs. The NAIC stresses that ALE will not make your mortgage payment, that many policies have dollar or time limits, and that you need receipts for everything.
6. The adjuster's inspection
The insurer will send an adjuster, or ask for photos and video for smaller claims. Be present at the inspection, point out all damage, including hidden water damage and items in the attic or basement, and ask how the estimate will be prepared. Get your own contractor's estimate as well; it is your best tool if the numbers do not match. For a large or complex loss you may hire a licensed public adjuster; see our guide to adjusters and appraisers.
7. Review the settlement
Compare the insurer's estimate line by line with your contractor's. Common gaps are missing items, low unit prices, and costs for code upgrades or debris removal. If the mortgage lender is named on the policy, the check for the dwelling may be payable to both you and the lender, which then releases funds as repairs progress.
8. If you disagree
- Send the insurer your evidence in writing and ask for a re-inspection.
- Use the appraisal clause if the dispute is only about the amount.
- File a complaint with your state insurance department if the insurer does not respond or you believe the claim is mishandled.
Details are in what to do when a claim is denied.
Protect yourself from repair fraud
After storms, unlicensed contractors often go door to door. The NAIC advises checking references, getting several bids, not signing documents you do not understand and never paying in full before the work is complete.
Policy forms and state rules vary, so always read your own policy. To check whether your coverage limits still match the cost of rebuilding, visit our home insurance section or request a quote.