Navigating Homeowners Insurance Claims: What to Expect After a Loss

Most of us know exactly what to do after a car accident—call the insurance company, take your car to a repair shop, and let the process unfold. Auto claims are so common that they’ve become second nature. But what about when your home is damaged by a fire, windstorm, or burst pipe? Filing a homeowners insurance claim is an entirely different experience, and it often comes with unexpected challenges.

The Homeowners Insurance Claim Process

At first, the process feels familiar:

✅ Report the damage to your insurance company.

✅ An adjuster is assigned to inspect the loss and estimate the cost of repairs.

But here’s where things take a turn. Unlike auto insurance—where repair shops and insurance companies work directly together—homeowners must take the lead in coordinating repairs. Once your adjuster provides an estimate, it’s up to you to find a contractor, manage repairs, and ensure the work is done properly.

Challenges You Might Face

Unlike car repairs, where pricing is fairly standardized, home repair costs can vary widely. This means you’re responsible for:

🔹 Finding a contractor willing to work within the adjuster’s estimate.

🔹 Ensuring the quality of work.

🔹 Managing the entire project from start to finish.

What Happens Next?

Here are the two most common scenarios:

1️⃣ If the contractor agrees with the adjuster’s estimate

• Your insurance company sends you a check (minus your deductible).
• You use that money to pay the contractor for repairs.

2️⃣ If the contractor’s bid is higher than the adjuster’s estimate

• A negotiation process begins.
• The adjuster may agree to adjust their estimate, but they’re not required to match the contractor’s price.
• Since insurance adjusters rely on company software for pricing, there’s often little flexibility.

And this assumes the damage is fully covered by your policy. If certain repairs aren’t included—or if your claim is denied—you’ll have to navigate disputes on your own. While contractors can provide documentation, they can’t legally advocate on your behalf during insurance negotiations.

Other Complexities to Consider

Depending on your situation, you might also need to manage:

🏠 Temporary Housing Costs: If your home is uninhabitable, your policy may cover hotel stays or rental expenses.

📦 Personal Property Claims: Damage to furniture, clothing, and electronics may require additional paperwork and documentation.

When dealing with a major loss, keeping track of all these moving parts can be overwhelming.

Help Is Available

If this sounds stressful, you’re not alone. The good news? There are professionals who specialize in helping homeowners navigate complex claims. In an upcoming article, we’ll dive into the resources available to help you handle your claim with confidence.

Christopher Friedley 228-229-4817