Tips for a Stress-Free Home & Auto Claims Process

August 1, 2024

Insurance is one of those things that you keep in your back pocket to protect your peace of mind, hoping that you’ll never actually need to use it. However, the reality is that accidents and mishaps do happen—and when life throws you a curveball, your policy should ideally kick into gear to help you out! But in order for that to happen, you’ll have to submit a claim.

For those who are caught unprepared, going through the claims process can add to the pressure of an already difficult situation. If the thought of filing a Home or Auto Insurance claim sounds almost as stressful to you as the event itself, we’re here to clear up any assumptions and offer practical tips to help you navigate the process more smoothly. Keep reading to learn more!

Why is filing a claim so stressful?

It’s no doubt that experiencing an incident that necessitates a claim, such as a car accident, natural disaster, or theft, is inherently stressful. And if you’ve had a negative claims experience in the past, the anxiety surrounding them could be even worse.

Between financial concerns, feelings of uncertainty, and the lack of control you might think you have over the situation, the last thing you want to add to your plate is a lengthy back-and-forth with your insurance company. But by understanding what to expect, you’ll be able to prepare in advance and navigate the process like a pro.

How can I make the claims process go smoother?

The best case scenario is that you’ll never have to file a claim—BUT just in case you do, keep these tips in mind:

1. Be selective.

In the aftermath of a stressful event, it can be easy to forget the details if you don’t keep thorough records along the way to capture all the necessary information accurately. To ensure that you get the most of your insurance claim, document absolutely everything you can. You should be keeping meticulous records of:

The specific location, date and time of the incident, and a description of what happened;
Photos and videos of the damage or loss from multiple angles;
Original receipts or proof of purchase for items that were damaged or stolen;
Contact information of anyone who is injured or potentially injured, involved in the incident, or a witness;
Witness statements of the incident (if applicable);
Police reports, and the name and badge number of the attending police officer (if applicable);
Medical records and bills if the incident resulted in injuries;
Receipts for any emergency repairs made to prevent further damage;
Written repair estimates from contractors or mechanics for the cost of further repairs;
Your insurance policy, any claim forms as required by your insurer, and all relevant correspondence.

It’s better to be safe than sorry—providing as much documentation as possible will help to eliminate guesswork and speed up the claims process for both you and your insurance company. It’ll also give you the best chance of claiming the maximum amount of money that you’re entitled to, depending on what’s covered by your insurance policy.

One more thing: If you’re involved in a car accident, remember not to accept fault for the incident at any point—even an apology could be considered an admission of guilt if the other driver ultimately decides to sue you. For more tips, check out: Only 50% of Canadians Know What to Do After a Car Accident: Do You?

2. Don’t wait—submit right away.

Time is of the essence! If you need to make a claim, contact your insurance agent or broker as soon as possible after the incident. Most insurance companies have a time limit during which you must submit your claim—and failure to meet the deadlines stipulated in your policy could lead to your claim getting denied.

Starting the claims process early also allows for more accurate documentation of the incident while the details are fresh in your memory. Plus, it’ll give your insurer ample time to assess the situation and work towards a resolution.

3. Get to know your policy.

Understanding the ins and outs of your insurance policy ahead of time can help to ease some of the burden if it does come time to file a claim. To set realistic expectations and prevent surprises during the claims process, familiarize yourself with your Home & Auto Insurance policies, specifically:

What’s covered and what’s not;
Your deductible and policy limits;
Time limits and deadlines;
Exclusions and conditions;
And other requirements specific to your policy!

Knowledge is power, and having a robust awareness of your coverage will help empower you to advocate for yourself during the claims process with confidence.

4. Work with a broker.

Getting to know your insurance policy is often easier said than done, especially when there’s legalese and insurance jargon involved. That’s where working with a broker—like PROLINK—can help.

Brokers have the expertise needed to help you decipher the details of your coverage, keeping our eyes open for any errors or gaps so you can rest assured that you’re protected. We’ll help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance, and provide risk prevention tips to reduce the likelihood of future claims!

As an independent insurance broker, PROLINK puts your best interest first—not any specific insurance company, so you can be sure you’re always getting genuine guidance. Plus, our brokerage has a dedicated Claims Advisor on hand to offer advice and advocacy throughout the claims process, saving you hours of work by dealing with the insurer on your behalf and navigating any challenges that may arise to ensure you receive a fair payout.

We know that filing an insurance claim can seem daunting, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. But with PROLINK in your corner, you’ll have a loyal advocate every step of the way!

From guiding you towards the perfect coverage to supporting you through claims, our experienced team is here to help you get the most out of your insurance policy. With over 40 years in business and access to a wide network of over 30 insurance providers, we’ve seen it all—and we know how to get you the right coverage, from the right insurer, at the right price.

To learn more, connect with PROLINK today!

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PROLINK’s blog posts are general in nature. They do not take into account your personal objectives or financial situation and are not a substitute for professional advice. The specific terms of your policy will always apply. We bear no responsibility for the accuracy, legality, or timeliness of any external content.