How to file a renters insurance claim — and what to do if a claim is denied
How to file a renters insurance claim — and what to do if a claim is denied.
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If you're wondering how to file a renters insurance claim, there's a good chance something stressful has already happened. Whether your belongings were stolen, damaged by a fire, or ruined by a burst pipe, knowing what to do next can help the claims process go smoothly.
In general, it may make sense to file a claim with renters insurance when two things happen:
The cost to replace or repair your belongings exceeds your deductible.
If a fire destroys $8,000 worth of furniture and electronics and your deductible is $500, filing a claim could save you $7,500. If a covered water leak ruins a $300 coffee table and your deductible is $500, filing a claim likely won't result in a payout.
Some of the most common reasons renters file claims include theft, fire damage, vandalism, certain types of water damage , and liability incidents involving guests.
Before you throw anything away, start repairs, or replace damaged items, take time to document exactly what happened. The more evidence you have, the easier it will be for your provider to verify your renters insurance claim.
Start by photographing all damaged property from multiple angles.
If there's water damage, photograph the source of the leak if it's visible. If there's a break-in, photograph damaged doors, broken windows, or other signs of forced entry. A quick video walkthrough can also help capture the full extent of the damage and make sure you don't overlook something.
It's OK if you can't remember every detail perfectly. Just focus on providing as much information as you reasonably can.
Ideally, you should keep physical or digital receipts for your belongings. But you can also show proof of ownership through:
You may need to file a police report if your belongings were stolen or vandalized. Your insurance company may want a copy of this report before processing your claim.
Insurance companies generally expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent additional losses after an incident occurs.
For example, if a pipe bursts after a record-breaking snowstorm, you may need to shut off your water valve and move any of your undamaged belongings to a dry area. If your bedroom window was shattered during a thunderstorm, you may need to temporarily board it up.
Pro tip: If you incur any expenses while preventing further damage, keep the receipts. Your policy may reimburse some of those costs.
Once you've documented the damage, you're ready to start a claim. Most renters insurance claims follow a similar process, no matter which company you use.
For most renters insurance companies, you can file a claim online through the website, via your phone through the mobile app, or by calling an insurance agent.
Next, you'll provide all the documentation you gathered earlier to support your renters insurance claim.
