• In India, purchasing a house is a significant achievement in a person’s life. It’s not merely a fundamental necessity but also a lifelong investment. A home serves the purpose of security, yet it is also an asset that increases in value over time. This is why real estate remains one of the most desirable and lucrative investments in our nation. Nonetheless, Indians continue to hesitate in protecting this lifelong investment.
• A thorough building insurance policy will assist you in protecting your home and its contents from damage caused by fire, storms, theft, or vandalism. It will offer the financial support necessary for repairing or replacing anything that is harmed due to any of these reasons. If you are unsure how to file a home insurance claim, this blog will provide all the details concerning the claims process for your home insurance.

Before Claiming Home Insurance

Home insurance provides various types of coverage based on your needs. It covers your building, its contents, contents in transit, property liability, and more. Regardless of the coverage you select, here are a few actions you should take beforehand in case you need to file a claim:
● The first step when acquiring a policy is to comprehend the risks it covers.
● Get acquainted with the documents that will be required to file a claim and also understand the claims procedure. Reach out to your insurer if you have any questions but make sure you have clarity on all points.
● Adhere to the conditions and warranties of your policy, including all dos and don’ts throughout the policy duration.
● Properly store your documents and keep a digital copy available so that in the event of fire or significant damage, you can access all documents online.
● Always disclose the accurate value of your household possessions.
● In case of damage, inform the insurance company right away so that the loss can be evaluated correctly, and also notify the relevant authorities such as the police or fire department.

8 Steps to File a Home Insurance Claim

• If you need to file a building insurance claim, do so immediately after the damage occurs, as delay can result in more losses, particularly in cases of theft or vandalism. If your home is uninhabitable following the damage, check with your insurer to see if you are eligible to claim additional expenses for temporary accommodation. Also, remember that it is your responsibility to prevent any further damage.

Now let us examine the steps for filing a home insurance claim:

1. Report the claim promptly by contacting your insurance agent. Most insurance companies offer 24/7 online customer service numbers where you can call to register a claim or you can do it through the company’s website.
2. In the case of theft or fire, notify the police or fire brigade. You will need a copy of the FIR when submitting documents for claim settlement.
3. Gather all relevant evidence, take photographs, videos, or access CCTV recordings if you have cameras set up on your property, and present all the evidence to the insurer.
4. If a third party is responsible for the damage, you can file a third-party claim. Notify your insurer about this, who will initiate a claim with the third party’s insurer.
5. Prior to undertaking any repair or replacement services, send your insurer an estimate of the expenses involved.
6. The insurance company will designate a surveyor to evaluate your claim. He will look into the conditions surrounding the event of the damage, examine the evidence, review all documents, and assess the extent of the damage. He will detail the subsequent steps to be taken. He will decide the limits of your policy coverage and third-party accountability in the event of a third-party claim.
7. Once your claim is validated and approved by the insurance company, you will need to submit all necessary documents requested by the insurer.
8. Your claim will be reimbursed quickly if it is straightforward. In cases of complicated claims, it may take longer, and the insurer may also opt to disburse the claim amount in installments.
   Documents for Filing Home Insurance Claim
   The following are some of the essential documents required for filing a claim,
   ● Completed and signed claim form from the insurer.
   ● Evidence of the damage or loss, such as photographs, videos, etc. , accompanied by supporting documents like FIR, repair receipts, contractor invoices, etc.
   ● Claim notification to the third party, if relevant
   Depending on the reasons for the damage or loss, your insurer will provide a list of documents that you need to supply. There may be additional documents required beyond those mentioned above.
   Tips to Avoid Claim Rejection
   Focusing on small details can aid you in preventing claim rejection.
   ● Submit a list of all damaged items along with their value.
   ● Provide a comprehensive description of the damage’s cause with appropriate evidence.
   ● State the total loss amount.
   ● Keep your policy number readily available.
   ● Follow up with the insurance provider after submitting a claim.
   ● Respond promptly to any inquiries.
   ● Provide all requested information to the insurer.
   ● Be available during the inspection process.
   ● Maintain your property properly, as claims can be rejected if the damage is attributed to inadequate maintenance.
   
   Conclusion
   
   Investing in building insurance can alleviate significant financial strain in the event of any accidents or natural disasters. It is advisable to acquire comprehensive insurance that offers extensive coverage for your home, its contents, and any other property areas. It should be sufficient to assist you if you ever require temporary lodging. Your home provides you safety and security; it is your duty to protect it from any damage or loss.
   
   Disclaimer:
   The above information is solely for illustrative purposes. For more accurate details, please consult policy documents and prospectuses before finalizing the sale.