Filing an insurance claim can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with property damage or auto issues. Understanding what happens behind the scenes can help ease your mind during this process. Here’s a straightforward guide to what you can expect when filing an insurance claim.
Reporting Your Claim
The claims process begins the moment you report an incident. To file a claim, you can call us directly at 705-325-4461. Our claims department is available 24-7. You can also login to the Client Portal and file your claim online. Once your claim is reported, an insurance adjuster will typically reach out within 2-4 hours to gather details about what happened.
Property Claims: Step by Step
Assessment Phase
A claims adjuster and/or contractor will visit your property to evaluate the damage and document it with photographs. Any pictures or documentation that you can provide will help expedite your claim. For minor incidents or wind damage, you might only deal face-to-face with a contractor while an adjuster handles your claim via phone and email.
Estimation Process
The contractor will create a detailed estimate for repairs, which the insurance adjuster must review and approve.
Repair Authorization
After approval, you have options. You can either:
- Allow your insurance company’s preferred contractor to complete the repairs
OR
- Hire your own contractor (note that their quote and scope of work must align with the insurance company’s approved estimate)
Contents Replacement
If your personal belongings were damaged, you’ll need to provide:
- A comprehensive list of damaged items
- Photographs when possible
- Receipts where available
Most personal insurance policies offer replacement cost coverage, entitling you to new items of similar quality. You’ll typically pay for replacements upfront and then receive reimbursement. Many insurers also offer a cash settlement option at 75-85% of replacement value—this requires no receipt verification and gives you flexibility in replacing items at your own pace.
Completion
Once repairs are finished, you’ll either sign a completion certificate or the adjuster will inspect the work before issuing the final payment.
Auto Claims: The Process
Damage Assessment
Your insurer will either:
- Direct you to a preferred auto body shop for a damage estimate
- Send an appraiser to inspect your vehicle if you prefer using your own repair shop
Vehicle Repair
While your car is being repaired, rental coverage (if included in your policy) allows you to use a temporary vehicle. Keep in mind that preferred shops often offer more flexibility with rental extensions if repairs take longer than expected.
Total Loss Scenarios
If your vehicle is deemed a total loss, your insurance company will calculate its Actual Cash Value at the time of the incident and present you with an offer. Most insurers provide an additional three days of rental car usage after making an offer.
If you have a “waiver of depreciation” endorsement, the settlement can follow one of three approaches (typically the lowest amount):
- The original purchase price of the vehicle and equipment
- The manufacturer’s suggested list price from the purchase date
- The cost of replacing the car with a new one of the same make, model, and equipment
Theft Claims
For stolen vehicles, insurers typically wait 7-30 days to see if your car is recovered. If not found and you have appropriate coverage, the value is determined as outlined above. If recovered, any theft-related damages will be covered by your policy.
Should You File a Claim?
Before filing a claim, consider contacting your broker for advice. Your insurance broker can help determine whether filing a claim makes financial sense in your specific situation. Some smaller claims might impact your premium rates more than paying out-of-pocket, and your broker can provide valuable insight into these potential ramifications.
Remember that your broker serves as your claims advocate throughout this process. If you have concerns about how your claim is being handled or questions about the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to them for guidance and support.
Filing an insurance claim doesn’t have to be complicated. With proper guidance from your broker and understanding of the process, you can navigate this challenging time with confidence.
