Pros and Cons of Filing a Homeowners Insurance Claim (2024)

FAQs

Pros and Cons of Filing a Homeowners Insurance Claim? ›

It could increase your premiums

The higher your perceived risk, the more likely you are to pay more in premiums. Your claims history tends to play a direct role. If you've filed homeowners insurance claims in the past, your insurer may see it as a red flag that you'll continue to do so in the future.

It could increase your premiums

The higher your perceived risk, the more likely you are to pay more in premiums. Your claims history tends to play a direct role. If you've filed homeowners insurance claims in the past, your insurer may see it as a red flag that you'll continue to do so in the future.

Avoid any language that could be construed as apologetic or blameful. Admitting any level of fault can eliminate or reduce the compensation that may be available.

To claim or not to claim? Before filing a claim, consider the cost of the excess and the potential for premium increases against the cost of the damage. In cases of minor damage, it might be more economical to handle the repairs yourself to prevent future hikes in insurance rates.

Events typically not covered by standard homeowners insurance include: Floods. Earthquakes, sinkholes and other "earth movement"

Getting a repair estimate is the key first step toward resolving your vehicle damage claim after an accident. When you're making an insurance claim after any kind of traffic accident, getting a trustworthy repair estimate (or two) is a necessary first step toward getting your vehicle fixed and back on the road.

If the repair cost is lower than your insurance policy's deductible, it's probably not worth filing a claim. For instance, if your deductible is $1,000 and there is no property damage, or the damage is less than the deductible, your rates will go up and stay high for at least three years.

If the damage costs more to repair than the value of your premium, it may be worth making a claim. This is simply because it will save you money on the repairs, especially if the damage is substantial anyway.

Insurance claims are often denied if there is a dispute as to fault or liability. Companies will only agree to pay you if there's clear evidence to show that their policyholder is to blame for your injuries. If there is any indication that their policyholder isn't responsible the insurer will deny your claim.

How to negotiate with a home insurance claim? ›

When negotiating with the adjuster, be prepared to advocate for yourself. Be polite and professional, but don't be afraid to push back if you think the settlement offer is too low. Provide evidence to support your position, and be willing to compromise to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.

Don't admit fault. Don't say you aren't injured. If they ask, you should be adamant that you are not sure. Don't sign any release to release your medical records without checking with your lawyer.

If you disagree with the insurance adjuster, it's crucial to gather supporting documents and consider consulting a car accident lawyer to help you navigate the claims process and ensure you receive the fair settlement you deserve.

That said, you'll usually be looking at an increase of 20%-50%. Unless it's protected, you should also expect to lose any no-claims discount you've built up. Even if it's protected you could still see your premiums rise – this is because a no-claims discount is a reduction from a baseline car insurance premium.

Will my car insurance go up after an accident? Unfortunately, the simple answer to this is yes. Whether the accident was your fault or not, making a claim will usually lead to an increase in your car insurance premium the next year and you could see an increase even if you don't make a claim.

Yes, a comprehensive claim might increase your rate, but maybe not as much as an at-fault accident would. Comprehensive claims include non-collision events like car theft, car vandalism, car fire, chipped/cracked windshield, hitting an animal, and acts of nature.

It's crucial to file a claim for major property damage and bodily injuries. A claim might not be worth it for one-car accidents when nobody is hurt. A bad driving record could increase your auto insurance premiums for three years.

Earthquake, flood, mold, earth movement, and “wear and tear” are some of the perils that are usually excluded.

How many homeowners claims is too many? Generally, if you haven't filed more than one non-catastrophic loss claim in three years, and have no liability losses in three years, you may still be eligible for coverage. Two claims in five years may drive up the cost of your coverage.