Insurance Claim Checklist | The Colony Public Adjuster

Your claim checklist

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Right after the damage 0 / 5

Make sure everyone is safe and call 911 for emergenciesSafety comes before documentation.Prevent further damage if it is safe to do soTarp, shut off water, board up, and keep every receipt.Photograph and video every affected areaWide shots first, then close-ups, before cleanup starts.Write down the date, time and how you discovered the damageSave damaged items or photograph them before disposal

Reporting the claim 0 / 5

Report the claim to your insurer promptlyFollow the notice requirements in your policy.Write down your claim number and adjuster contact detailsGet a full copy of your policy, including endorsementsYour declarations page alone is not enough.Start a claim diary for every call, email and visitUse our free claim diary tool.Ask the insurer what documents it needs, in writing

Inspection 0 / 4

Prepare a list of every damaged area to show the adjusterBe present for the inspection, or have a representative therePoint out interior and exterior damage, including soft metalsAsk which areas were inspected and note anything missed

Estimate and payment 0 / 5

Get every version of the insurer's estimate in writingCompare it line by line with a contractor's scopeLook for missing rooms, quantities and items.Check the deductible, depreciation and payment mathTry our claim payment calculator.Build a contents inventory for damaged belongingsKeep receipts for additional living expensesHotels, meals and mileage above normal costs.

Repairs and closing 0 / 5

Keep contracts, invoices and proof of completed repairsRequest recoverable depreciation after repairs, if applicableCheck your policy's time limit.Note any deadlines in decision letters and your policyList open questions for a free claim reviewStore a backup of your entire claim file

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An organizational aid, not a complete list of policy duties or legal requirements. Always follow the specific requirements in your policy and insurer correspondence.

Questions

Claim preparation checklist FAQs

These tools from The Colony Public Adjuster help you get organized. They do not decide coverage or payment. For a closer look at your own numbers, request a free claim review.

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What is the first thing to do after property damage?

Make sure everyone is safe, then take reasonable steps to prevent further damage and document conditions with photos and video before cleanup.

Do I need to keep damaged items?

Keep them, or photograph them thoroughly, until the insurer has had a chance to document them, unless they pose a health or safety risk.

Will my checklist be saved?

Yes, in this browser on this device. Clearing your browser data or using a private window will reset it.

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A clearer path forward

Your claim deserves a closer look.

Talk with The Colony Public Adjuster about the damage, the paperwork and your next step. The first review is free and there is no obligation.

Request a free claim review Call (832) 503-5866

A claim checklist for every stage.