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Filing an insurance claim usually means something bad has happened — and getting that dreaded denial letter can make a tough situation even worse. While you can’t control every twist and turn of the claims process, you can take steps to avoid common mistakes that lead insurers to say no. Here are five ways to help ensure your claim is approved.
Report the Claim as Soon as You Can
Most insurance policies require you to report a loss “as soon as reasonably possible.” This isn’t a technicality — it’s there to protect you. After a loss, you’re stressed, shaken or distracted, and that’s when poor decisions happen.
By alerting your insurer right away, you allow them to:
- Step in to prevent further damage
- Guide you through next steps
- Steer you away from shady third parties who promise miracles
You pay for the insurer’s help — don’t delay giving them the chance to provide it.
Don’t Repair Anything Before the Adjuster Sees the Damage
Your instinct after a loss is to fix things immediately. Totally normal — and totally counterproductive if you want the insurer to cover it.
If you repair the damage before the adjuster documents it, the insurer has no proof the loss occurred as you claim. They can’t verify the damage, assign value or confirm the cause. In other words, they can’t do their job.
Always wait for the green light before making permanent repairs. Temporary measures to prevent more damage are usually fine, but confirm with your insurer first.
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Treat the Claims Adjuster With Respect
Adjusters deal with people on their worst days, all day long. Although you’re frustrated, angry or upset, remember:
- The adjuster didn’t cause your loss
- They want to help you get back to normal
- They’re human beings with emotions and limits
Being rude or hostile won’t speed up your claim — and it often slows things down. Treat them the way you’d want to be treated if the roles were reversed.
Don’t Try to “Make Up for” Your Premiums
A claim is not a chance to get a refund for years of premiums. It's not a payout for sticking with the same insurer. It’s a contract — you’re entitled to what your policy covers, nothing more.
Exaggerating your losses or inflating values is a quick way to get your entire claim denied. Stick to the facts and expect the insurer to honor the policy you signed up for.
Never Lie — Not Even a Little
Everyone likes to believe they never lie, but the temptation can be real when you’re hurting financially. Even the tiniest fabrication — a pair of shoes you almost bought, a TV you planned to replace — is considered insurance fraud.
If the insurer uncovers dishonesty, they can deny everything, including legitimate losses. The risk is never worth it.
Being hit with a loss is hard enough. Following these guidelines won’t make the damage disappear, but they’ll help ensure your insurance company can do its part — and that your claim stays on the right track.
Want to learn more about insurance? Visit
KarlSusman.com.
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