Should I get contractor estimates before filing?

No — file your claim first, then gather estimates. Your carrier will assign an adjuster to assess damage independently. After the adjuster's review, compare their estimate to contractor quotes. If the adjuster's number is lower, your contractor estimates are your primary tool for requesting a supplement.

What if I need emergency repairs before my adjuster visits?

Make emergency repairs necessary to prevent further damage — your policy requires mitigation. Document everything before and after with photos. Save all receipts. Do not make permanent repairs or hire contractors for full restoration until your adjuster has completed their inspection.

What is a supplemental claim?

A supplemental claim is submitted when the cost to complete repairs exceeds the initial settlement amount — a common occurrence when hidden damage is discovered during renovation. Submit a supplemental request with your contractor's revised estimate and documentation of the additional damage.

How does Additional Living Expense (ALE) coverage work?

If your home is uninhabitable due to a covered loss, ALE pays for temporary housing (hotel, rental), meals above your normal food budget, and other necessary extra expenses. Keep all receipts. ALE is typically capped at 20% of your dwelling coverage limit and covers the time needed to complete repairs.

Claim Guide · Home

How to File a Home Insurance Claim

Discovering damage to your home is stressful. This guide walks you through the complete process — from the moment you find the damage to the final settlement check — so you recover fully and on time.

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Documents to Gather Before You File

Photos & Videos

All damage areas — structure and contents — before cleanup or repairs begin.

Damage Inventory

Written list of all damaged personal property with descriptions, dates, and estimated values.

Repair Estimates

Written contractor estimates for all structural repairs — get at least two estimates.

Police or Fire Report

For theft, vandalism, or fire — official reports strengthen your claim significantly.

Emergency Expense Receipts

All receipts for temporary mitigation, board-up, extraction, and emergency lodging.

Policy Documents

Your declarations page confirming coverage limits, deductible, and any endorsements.

Step-by-Step: Filing a Home Insurance Claim

Step 1

Step 1: Secure and Mitigate

Your first obligation is to prevent further damage — your policy requires it. Board up broken windows, cover roof damage with tarps, shut off water at the main valve for burst pipes, and contact a restoration company for immediate water extraction if needed. Document every mitigation action with photos and save all receipts — these costs are reimbursable.

Step 2

Step 2: Document All Damage Thoroughly

Before any cleanup begins, photograph and video every area of damage from multiple angles. Create a written inventory of damaged personal property including: item description, approximate purchase date, estimated original cost, and estimated current value. Include serial numbers for electronics and appliances. The more thorough your documentation, the stronger your claim.

Step 3

Step 3: Report and File Your Claim

Contact VKOVR or your insurance carrier to file your claim as soon as possible. Provide the date of loss, cause of damage, and a general description of affected areas. Do not wait for repairs to begin. You receive a claim number and an assigned adjuster. VKOVR advisors review your claim package before submission to catch any gaps.

Step 4

Step 4: Meet Your Adjuster

Your assigned adjuster schedules an in-person or virtual inspection. Walk them through all damage areas — inside and outside. Share your documentation, estimates, and inventory. VKOVR advisors help you prepare for this meeting and review the adjuster's findings independently to ensure nothing is missed or undervalued.

Step 5

Step 5: Review the Settlement Offer

Your adjuster submits a coverage determination and settlement estimate. Review the offer carefully against your actual repair estimates and personal property values. If you have a replacement cost value (RCV) policy, the initial payment may be reduced for depreciation — you receive the recoverable depreciation after repairs are completed. VKOVR advisors help you challenge any offer that falls short.

Step 6

Step 6: Complete Repairs and Recover Depreciation

Once repairs are complete, submit proof of completed repairs to your carrier to receive the withheld depreciation (if you have an RCV policy). Keep all contractor invoices. If costs exceeded the initial estimate, request a supplemental claim review before paying contractors out of pocket.

Home Claim Guide — FAQ

File as soon as it is safe to do so — ideally within 24–48 hours of a loss event. Most policies require "prompt" reporting. Do not wait until repairs are complete or the full extent of damage is known. File first, then add documentation as it becomes available.

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Need Help With Your Home Claim?

Speak with a VKOVR advisor — we guide you through documentation, adjuster preparation, and working with your carrier.

Home Claims Guide