Making a claim
Speak to your insurance agent or insurance company immediately to report the damage to your property or vehicle. Most insurance companies list a special 800 number designated for claims.
Provide information such as your name, address, policy number, and the date and time of loss or damage.
Record the damage of your home or vehicle by taking pictures as soon as possible. If your vehicle was damaged, take pictures of all four sides of your vehicle. If your property was damaged, take pictures of all damaged content: for example, appliances, electronic devices, furniture, clothing, paintings, collectibles and other valuables, and spoiled food.
Gather information about your property such as receipts, credit account records, and house appraisals. If property damage is extensive, and previous house pictures and a house inventory is accessible, gather this information for submission to your insurance company. If this is not available, prepare a detailed list of damaged items and estimate the value of each. Add the approximate date and place of purchase if possible.
Repair or patch roofs temporarily to protect against any further damage. Board up broken windows to secure your home from theft or damage. Remove all furnishings that can be salvaged and bring to a safe location for storage. Furnishings exposed to the elements should be dried out to avert further deterioration.
Keep any receipts for repairs to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement and keep a record of all cleaning costs, for example, dry cleaning, equipment rental, living expenses, such as motel and food bills, apartment or vehicle rental.
Find a trustworthy company who is licensed and bonded to repair your property. Do not trust a worker who comes into a devastated area and makes promises to repair your home cheaply.
Wait for an insurance adjuster to make an appropriate estimate. Sometimes damage is overlooked when an estimate is made hastily and the damage may become evident at a later time.
Talk to your agent or adjuster if the settlement is not up to your satisfaction. Your policy will determine what steps you need to take regarding a settlement to your damage.
The information on this site is intended to provide Florida residents with a general knowledge of what may be available and is subject to terms, conditions, and exclusions stated in the policies. Coverage is subject to specific limitations; therefore, the customer should consult their policy for details on conditions, exclusions, and limits.