For most homeowners, filing homeowner's insurance claims is a rare event. Unfortunately, because individuals don't need to do so often, it's easy to find yourself getting the short end of the deal. After all, if you had to file frequent insurance claims, you'd know what to expect and have the benefit of experience. If you're involved in a homeowner's insurance claim for the first time (or need a refresher), here are a few insurance claim tips to help ensure that you get a fair settlement.



Clues that Your Insurance Claim Might Not be Fair: The insurance adjuster arrives, takes a quick look around, and then disappears. Preparing realistic assessments of the damage takes time. When an adjuster comes in and says, "Yep, the house is flooded alright" and then dashes off to his next claim, he's not giving your property the attention to detail that you deserve. You already know the house is flooded, right? The adjuster's job is to assess the damage and make reasonable estimates.

Lightning fast settlement offers. This is clue is similar to the adjuster who arrives and quickly departs only this time, the offer is made "too fast." For example, if the adjuster arrives and says, "Yep, the house is flooded. I'm authorized to cut you a check for $X right now," resist the urge to accept the offer right away. Ask to see a detailed breakdown of the damages along with estimates. In addition, obtain your own independent estimates so that you can make sure that the settlement offer is sufficient.

The insurance company "brushes you off." Is your insurance adjuster failing to return your calls? While adjusters are busy professionals, not returning phone calls is a common ploy. When you feel as if you are getting the brush off, continuous phone calls to the adjuster may continue to be ignored. Instead, call the insurance company and ask if the adjuster is in the building. If so, do not let the receptionist transfer you to the adjuster's desk as your call will likely end up in voicemail. Ask the receptionist to get the adjuster on the line and connect you directly. If this is not possible, ask to speak to a supervisor and state that you will hold on the line until you can speak with someone in authority rather than leave a message.

Stalling tactics. In most states, insurance companies must resolve claims in a specific time frame. However, these regulations have a bit of wiggle room and time frames can be extended under certain circumstances. For example, in Texas, insurance companies have 15 calendar days (in most cases) to acknowledge receipt of your claim and request reasonable information related to the claim. From there, the insurance company has 15 business days to approve or deny your claim in writing. However, if the insurance company notifies you that it needs more time, this deadline can be extended. The law provides additional provisions and regulations such as Texas's vary from state to state. If your insurance company continuously asks for clarification on your claim forms, they may be stalling. Check your state's department of insurance to see what your rights are.

When it comes to filing an insurance claim, taking a proactive approach will help ensure that you are properly compensated. Prepare detailed inventories and obtain several independent estimates. Be prepared to stick up for yourself and make your case.