If you've taken out insurance and something happens, you might need to make a claim.
This page tells you what you need to think about before you contact your insurer and also what to do if someone tries to make a claim against you.
Making a claim
If you need to make a claim contact your insurer as soon as possible and ask them to send you a claim form. They may be able to email this to you to speed things up. Complete the claim form carefully and keep a copy for yourself.
The Association of British Insurers have more information on flooding and insurance, including what you can expect after a flood atwww.abi.org.uk.
Check the following things before you send off your claim:
you're within the time limits for making a claim
you're covered for what you're claiming for
how much the excess is. The excess is the amount of money that your insurer will take off the claim. It may not be worth making a claim if the amount you're claiming for is less than this
the small print. Make sure there's nothing in the terms and conditions that prevents you from claiming
whether it's a new for old policy. If it isn't, the amount you get for items you're claiming for will be less than the cost of replacing them. This is because the insurer takes off money for wear and tear.
You'll need to include copies of all paperwork that will help your claim, including receipts or medical certificates. You should also keep copies of the originals in case your claim is queried or refused.
Your insurer may ask if you have other insurance that may cover the claim. You'll need to let them know if you have other insurance that may also offer cover, for example, home contents insurance.
It's important not to exaggerate your claim since this could lead to the whole claim being rejected.
If you're making a large claim you may want to use a loss assessor, who can help you prepare the claim and arrange for items to be valued. You can find a loss assessor by searching online.
Do you have to claim on your insurance?
You don't have to make a claim on your insurance policy, even if you're entitled to do so. In some cases, if the amount is quite small, you may not want to make a claim because if you do so your future premiums could increase by more than the amount you have claimed.
However, it's a good idea to make an insurance claim if someone has been injured. Personal injuries can be expensive, and they can leave long-term health problems.
Even if you don't want to make a claim on your insurance policy, you must always tell your insurer about an event. If you don't report it, you may find that this leads to problems later on if you do want to make a claim.
Someone is making a claim against you
If you find out that someone is making a claim against you should tell your insurer as soon as possible and send them any paperwork you receive. You should not admit anything is your fault without talking to your insurer first. This is called admitting liability.
Next steps
FAQs
Below are some best practices to consider:
- Contact a lawyer. ...
- Keep in mind that despite the friendliness of the person taking your statement, that person is not your friend. ...
- Ask specifically that your statement not be recorded. ...
- Give brief answers. ...
- Don't volunteer information. ...
- Answer only the question asked.
Give your name, address, policy number, and the date and time of your loss. Make sure to tell your insurance agent where you can be reached, especially if you are unable to stay in your home. Follow up the call with a letter detailing the problem. Keep a copy of the letter.
How do I make a successful insurance claim? ›
- File your home insurance claim immediately. ...
- Document the damage. ...
- Make temporary repairs. ...
- Communicate with your adjuster. ...
- Save your receipts. ...
- Consider your contractor. ...
- Get help with living expenses.
Important Tips
- Read your policy. ...
- If you don't understand your policy, ask your agent and/or company for clarification.
- If you have an accident, call the police. ...
- Get as much information as possible at the accident scene to furnish to your agent and/or insurance company.
Steps to Appeal a Health Insurance Claim Denial
- Step 1: Find Out Why Your Claim Was Denied. ...
- Step 2: Call Your Insurance Provider. ...
- Step 3: Call Your Doctor's Office. ...
- Step 4: Collect the Right Paperwork. ...
- Step 5: Submit an Internal Appeal. ...
- Step 6: Wait For An Answer. ...
- Step 7: Submit an External Review. ...
- Review Your Plan Coverage.
To be strong and effective, a claim should be debatable, focused, and specific. In other words, it ought to be something that can be argued with reasons and evidence, and it ought to be narrow enough to properly support or prove in the space and format available.
How do you write an effective claim request? ›
When writing a claim letter, it's important to be clear and concise, outlining the facts of the situation without making accusations or insinuations. Make sure to include any relevant details or evidence that may help support your claim.
What do you say when appealing an insurance claim? ›
To Whom It May Concern: I am writing to request a review of your denial of the claim for treatment or services provided by name of provider on date provided. The reason for denial was listed as (reason listed for denial), but I have reviewed my policy and believe treatment or service should be covered.
How to get more money out of an insurance claim? ›
Maximize Your Insurance Claim Payout: 10 Tips for Understanding and Negotiating the Estimate
- Never Accept the First Offer.
- Never Sign Anything Before Consulting.
- Hire a Professional to Review and Give You Advice.
- Look Out for These Four Specifically.
- Show Proof if You Want to Argue the Estimate.
Be empathetic and professional when dealing with policyholders who have experienced a loss. Stay up-to-date with industry developments and advancements in technology. Maintain a high level of organization and attention to detail to ensure a smooth and efficient claims process.
Claims are statements about what is true or good or about what should be done or believed. Claims are potentially arguable. "A liberal arts education prepares students best" is a claim, while "I didn't like the book" is not.
What is the downside of filing an insurance claim? ›
It could increase your premiums
The higher your perceived risk, the more likely you are to pay more in premiums. Your claims history tends to play a direct role. If you've filed homeowners insurance claims in the past, your insurer may see it as a red flag that you'll continue to do so in the future.
When not to make an insurance claim? ›
If repair costs are less than your deductible, if no one else's property is damaged, and if no one else is injured, there is generally no reason to file a claim. Remember, your deductible is the amount of money that you commit to paying out of pocket before your insurance company begins to pay you any benefits.
Does your insurance go up after a claim that is not your fault? ›
Under California law, an insurer cannot increase your premiums when you aren't at fault.
How do you answer the question why insurance? ›
4 example answers
I'm an extroverted individual who enjoys solving problems, so the insurance industry is perfect for me. I never encounter a challenge that I'm not excited to overcome, and I embody a positive attitude every day that I come to work so that I can help my customers and place of employment thrive."
How do you explain an insurance claim? ›
An insurance claim is a formal request from the policyholder to their insurance company asking for payment after a covered incident, such as a hospital stay, a natural disaster, theft, and more.
How do I reply to the insurance company? ›
Promptly respond to letters and requests if they are unreasonable. If they are, say so, in writing. Be proactive: Give your insurer proof of your losses and ask for the dollar amounts you are entitled to. Don't wait for them to tell you how much they owe you.
