Home Insurance Β· Claims

How to file a home insurance claim, from the first photo to the final check

Water on the floor, a tree on the roof, a window smashed in. The first hour after damage shapes the size of your claim check.

πŸ“… Nov 11, 2026✍️ Connecting Crowd Editorial⏱️ 7 min read

Fact-checked against state insurance regulators, the NAIC, FEMA, the Insurance Information Institute and published rate studies Β· Updated November 11, 2026

Start here

  • Make your home safe and prevent more damage first, such as shutting off water or covering a hole.
  • Photograph and film everything before you clean up, and keep damaged items if you can.
  • Report the claim quickly and write down your claim number and the adjuster's name.
  • Keep receipts for emergency repairs and extra living costs; many policies reimburse them.
In this article

    What to have ready

    • Your policy number
    • Photos and video of the damage
    • A list of damaged belongings with rough values
    • Receipts for emergency repairs and hotel stays

    Steps follow guidance from the NAIC and state insurance regulators. Your insurer may have its own requirements and deadlines.

    Roofer inspecting damaged shingles
    HOME INSURANCE GUIDE6 stepsTo file a home insurance claim the right way

    Knowing how to file a home insurance claim before you need to is the best way to get paid fairly and quickly. Most delays come from missing photos, missing receipts or repairs done before the adjuster saw the damage.

    Here is the process step by step, plus what to do if you disagree with the offer.

    How to file a home insurance claim in 6 steps

    1. Stay safe and stop the damage. Shut off water, cover broken windows or the roof with tarps, and move belongings out of harm's way. Your policy expects reasonable steps to prevent more damage.
    2. Document everything. Take wide and close-up photos and video before cleaning up. Keep damaged items until the adjuster says you can discard them.
    3. Call your insurer or file online. Report the damage as soon as you can and write down your claim number.
    4. Meet the adjuster. Walk them through every area, share your photos and point out damage they might miss.
    5. Get repair estimates. Ask licensed contractors for written estimates and compare them with the adjuster's figures.
    6. Track every payment. Check each payment against your estimate, and ask about recoverable depreciation once repairs are done.

    If you have to leave home

    Loss of use coverage pays reasonable extra living costs while your home is repaired, such as a hotel, rental and extra food costs. Keep every receipt and ask your insurer about its limits early.

    20%typical loss of use limit, as a share of dwelling coverage
    Receiptsneeded for every extra cost
    Normal costssuch as your mortgage are not reimbursed

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    When to think twice about filing

    The damage is just above my deductible. Should I file?

    Maybe not. A small claim can raise your premium for years. Get a repair estimate first and compare it with your deductible.

    Should I report damage even if I do not file?

    Asking your insurer a question can sometimes be recorded. If you are unsure, check your policy or ask an independent agent first.

    Compare home insurers with strong claims service

    Rates change from one ZIP code to the next. Add yours to see homeowners insurance options available where you live, with no commitment.

    If you disagree with the offer

    1. Ask the insurer to explain the payment in writing, line by line.
    2. Send your contractor's estimate and photos supporting a higher amount.
    3. Ask about appraisal, a process in many policies for settling disputes over the amount of loss.
    4. If you still disagree, contact your state department of insurance or consider a public adjuster or attorney.
    Watch for storm-chasing contractors

    After major storms, some contractors go door to door asking for upfront payment or for you to sign over your claim. Use licensed local contractors and read anything before you sign.

    Frequently asked questions

    How long do I have to file a home insurance claim?

    It depends on your policy and state, but report damage as soon as possible. Late reporting can complicate or delay your claim.

    Will my insurer send an adjuster?

    Usually, for larger claims. Some smaller claims are handled with photos and video you upload.

    Can I start repairs before the adjuster comes?

    Make emergency repairs to prevent more damage and keep the receipts. Wait on permanent repairs until the damage is documented and approved.

    Why did I get two checks?

    Many insurers pay actual cash value first and the rest, called recoverable depreciation, after repairs are done.

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