Marsh & McLennan Agency

Tips to Help You Navigate a Claim

This is the time of year when you are more likely to suffer a home or auto loss. We have recently seen everything from ice dams and house fires to broken windshields and auto accidents. No matter what type of claim you have, you should know the steps to take in the claims process:

• Contact your insurance agent as soon as possible.  Make sure you understand the basics of how this claim will affect you. Some of the questions you may want to ask them:  Is the damage covered? How long do I have to file the claim? Will the deductible apply? Do I need an estimate? How will this affect my future insurability?
• Submit the claim. You can contact your insurance company directly to report the claim or you may contact your agent. Don’t be surprised if your insurance agent transfers you to the company to file the first report, because the insurance company will most likely want a direct statement from you with the details of what happened in the loss and may even record your statement. Keep copies of all forms that you send to the company or your agent. Most likely a company adjuster will be sent out to inspect the damage and help settle the claim. There is no charge for this service. You may also be contacted by a Public Adjuster who has no relationship with your insurance company. Public Adjusters charge you a fee for their services that can be as much as 15 percent of your claim settlement. Be advised, they can’t get more money for you than what is stated in your policy.
• Document the loss. Create a file for your claim. The better organized you are the easier the entire process will be. Write up a summary of what happened, take pictures, and keep lists of damaged items. Write down the name of everyone you speak with at your agency or company, along with the date you spoke to them.
• Know who to contact for claims assistance. If you have questions on any aspect of your claims process, your assigned insurance company adjuster is the best person to ask. If you are still not happy with any aspect of your claim, contact your insurance agent and they will get involved on your behalf. Most consumers find that their claim is paid quickly, easily, and fairly.

It is in the insurance company’s best interest to pay claims quickly and fairly to keep their customers happy. Most companies stake their reputation on how they handle their claims. Because our agency recognizes claims handling is the most important aspect of insurance, we have a dedicated Claims Advisor on staff to advocate for our customers. You should never be expected to know every aspect of how the claims process works – that’s our job.

Call Protector Group at 888-850-9400 if you need claims guidance.