How to File a Homeowner's Claim

• Report any crime to the police.
• Call your agent or company as soon as possible.
• Make temporary repairs - save receipts and submit them to your insurance company.
• Prepare a list of lost or damaged items.
• If you need to relocate to a new home, keep receipts associated with the move to submit to your insurance company.
• Get claims forms and fill them out and return them as soon as possible.
• Most insurance companies will send an adjuster to examine the damage to your home.

Helpful Hint

You should videotape your dwelling and contents at least annually. The information on the tape will help you in the claims process should you incur severe loss. The tape should be stored at a location other than your home.

• Determine how much coverage you need - you should carry a minimum of 80 percent of the full replacement cost of your home.
• Learn what kinds of policies are available to meet your needs.
• Comparison shop - prices of insurance can vary widely.
• Consider service - select a company that will answer your questions and handle your claims fairly, efficiently and quickly.
• Make sure the company and agent are licensed to do business in North Carolina.

2006 Average Homeowners Premium By State: Dwelling Fire And Homeowners Owner-Occupied Policy Forms 

Source: National Association of Insurance Commissioners