Assess the Damage: The first step in the home insurance claim process is inspecting the damage or noting stolen property. Take photos or videos of the damage and list all the damaged or lost items.
The Most Common Home Insurance Claims in Missouri
Your home is your safe place, but accidents can happen. Even the most cautious homeowners may encounter unexpected and unavoidable events that require them to file a home insurance claim. In Missouri, homeowners’ insurance claims are pretty common, and knowing the most common types of claims can help you better protect your home and assets. In this article, we explore the most frequent home insurance claims filed in Missouri and the home insurance claim process.
What Are the Leading Causes of Home Insurance Claims Being Filed in Missouri?
In Missouri, severe weather and natural disasters are the most common reasons homeowners file insurance claims. Missouri is known for its unpredictable weather patterns, including tornadoes, hailstorms, and flash floods. Other common causes of home insurance claims include theft, vandalism, and fire. Understanding these common causes can help you better prepare and protect your home and assets.
Wind and Hail Damage
The high winds and hail storms that Missouri experiences can cause significant damage to your home’s exterior, including roofs, siding, and windows. It is essential to check your home’s exterior following inclement weather and document the damage you notice. If something doesn’t seem right, it’s always a smart idea to contact your insurance company and a trusted contractor to assess your home and make any temporary repairs to avoid extensive damage while your claims adjuster works through their process. Most homeowners’ insurance policies cover wind and hail damage, but reviewing your policy to know what is covered is always good practice.
Water Damage
Various factors, including flooding, burst pipes, and leaky roofs, can cause water damage. In Missouri, flash floods can cause significant damage to homes, especially ones in flood-prone areas. It is crucial to have flood insurance coverage if you live in a high-risk area. It’s critical to address water damage immediately as it can lead to mold growth, which can be dangerous and costly to remove.
Fire Damage
Fires can occur anytime and cause severe damage to your home and possessions. In Missouri, wildfires often occur in rural areas, while house fires are caused due to electrical faults, cooking accidents, and other hazards. Most homeowners insurance coverages include fire damage, but each policy varies, as do coverage limits. Reviewing your policy before an issue arises helps you be best prepared for a worst-case scenario.
Theft
Unfortunately, theft is common everywhere, and it can be devastating to have your home burglarized. Homeowners’ insurance policies typically cover the loss or damage caused by theft, including stolen electronics, jewelry, and other personal belongings. However, to make a claim, you must provide proof of ownership and the value of the stolen items. We recommend taking a home inventory of your possessions, especially those with high value or replacement costs.
Liability Claims
Liability claims are typically filed when someone is injured or has their personal property damaged while on your property. Home insurance in Missouri typically covers liability claims, including legal fees, medical expenses, and settlement costs. But as with all insurance policies, it’s best to refer to your policy to understand your coverage.
Vandalism
Vandalism can cause significant damage to your home, including broken windows, damaged walls, and defaced property. If you have home insurance in Missouri, you’re likely covered against vandalism.
Your home isn’t the only personal property you should insure. Learn more about other personal insurance policies to protect yourself, your family, and your assets.
What Is the Home Insurance Claim Process?
If you’ve never had to do it before, or it’s been a while since you’ve had to, you’re probably wondering how to file a home insurance claim. Though it may feel daunting to the unfamiliar, the home insurance claim process is simple if you have an experienced and attentive insurance provider.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to file a home insurance claim:
Contact Your Insurance Company: Call your insurance company and provide them with the necessary information about the incident, including the date, time, and location of the damage.
Meet With an Adjuster: Your home insurance claim is assigned an insurance adjuster who assesses the damage and provides you with an estimate of the repair costs. Schedule an appointment with the adjuster at a time that works for you and doesn’t cause undue stress in an already stressful situation.
Provide Documentation: Provide any documentation the adjuster needs to assess the damage, such as receipts, photos, or videos. Make sure to keep copies of all documentation for your records.
Review Your Policy: Review your policy to ensure you understand what is covered and what is not. Knowing your policy limits, deductibles, and exclusions is essential so you know what to expect when filing a claim.
File a Claim: After you have completed the above steps, you can file your home insurance claim with your provider. Follow up with your insurance company to ensure your claim is being processed.
It’s important to note that filing a home insurance claim should only be done when the damage or loss is significant and exceeds your deductible. If the damage or loss is minor and doesn’t exceed your deductible, it may not be worth filing a claim. Your insurance company can guide you on whether to file a claim based on your policy and the damage or loss you have experienced.
Simplify the Home Insurance Claim Process With NEC Insurance
Utilizing home insurance in Missouri doesn’t have to be a stressful process. By following the steps above and working with the trusted insurance providers at NEC Insurance, you can ensure your home is protected, and your policy covers any damage or losses. We welcome you to reach out to discuss the claims process or get a quote for home insurance in Missouri today.
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NEC Insurance supports Missourians with high-quality coverage for businesses and individuals. We apply over 45 years of experience to help you navigate the market and deliver the policies you deserve.