A Homeowner’s Guide to Insurance Claims
No one wants to imagine something going wrong at home—whether it’s a burst pipe, a break-in, or a fire. But if the unexpected happens, knowing what to do and how to submit an insurance claim can make a stressful situation a little easier to manage.
At Boufford Insurance, we believe the more you know before a loss, the better prepared you’ll be if something ever goes wrong. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.
Document the Damage
Once it’s safe to do so, take photos or videos of the damage. Be thorough. Capture both wide-angle shots and close-ups. This visual record is incredibly helpful when filing your claim—and it can speed up the process.
Tip: Don’t throw anything away until your insurance adjuster has seen it, unless it poses a health hazard (like spoiled food or contaminated items).
Contact Boufford Insurance Right Away
Call your agent at Boufford Insurance as soon as possible. We’ll help guide you through your policy and get your claim started. The sooner you report the loss, the sooner the process can begin.
We’ll help you:
- Understand what’s covered under your policy
- File your claim correctly
- Connect with your insurance company’s adjuster
- Find trusted local contractors or restoration professionals
Prevent Further Damage
Most policies require you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. This could mean:
- Tarping a damaged roof
- Shutting off the water to stop a leak
- Boarding up broken windows
Keep receipts for any temporary repairs or supplies—they may be reimbursable under your policy.
Take Inventory
Make a list of damaged or missing items. Include as much detail as you can: brand, model, purchase date, and estimated value. If you have photos or receipts from before the loss, that’s even better.
Tip: It’s smart to keep a home inventory ahead of time—something we can help you set up.
Meet with the Adjuster
Your insurance company will send out an adjuster to assess the damage and estimate the cost of repairs or replacements. Be available to walk them through what happened and show them any documentation you’ve gathered.
We’re happy to be part of that conversation if you want someone on your side to help advocate for your claim.
Review Your Settlement
Once your claim is processed, you’ll receive a settlement offer. Review it carefully. If you have questions or feel something is missing, reach out—we’ll help you understand what it covers and make sure everything is in line with your policy.
A Few Pro Tips for Peace of Mind
- Know your deductible ahead of time so you’re not surprised.
- Review your policy annually to ensure your coverage still fits your needs.
- Store key documents and photos in the cloud or another secure location outside your home.
We’re Here When You Need Us Most
Experiencing a loss at home is tough, but you don’t have to face it alone. Boufford Insurance is committed to making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether it’s your first claim or your fifth, we’re here to answer your questions, explain the process, and help you recover with confidence.
