What Happens When You File a Home Insurance Claim

If you’ve had damage to your home, filing a claim can feel overwhelming. At Risk Strategies ICNJ, we’re here to make the process as simple and clear as possible. Here’s what you can expect.

1. Start by Reporting the Claim

You can report your claim directly through our office or the insurance company’s claims department. If you need your insurance company’s claims department phone number, visit our website at https://www.icnj.com/client-services/. Once it’s filed, you’ll receive a claim number and be assigned a claims adjuster who will walk you through the next steps.

You’ll also get a summary of the process along with your adjuster’s contact information. If you ever have questions, your adjuster is your main point of contact—but we’re always available to help if you need us.

2. Gather Information Before the Adjuster’s Inspection

To help the process go smoothly, take photos or videos of the damage right away. Make a list of any damaged or lost items and hold onto damaged belongings until your adjuster has seen them.

3. Meet with the Claims Adjuster

Your adjuster may schedule a time to visit your home, depending on the type and severity of the claim. Their job is to:

Review the damage
Determine what’s covered under your policy
Estimate the cost of repairs or replacement
Evaluate any additional living expenses if your home is uninhabitable

Once their report is complete, a supervisor will review and approve the claim.

4. Receiving Your Payment

After your claim is approved, payment will be issued. If you have a mortgage on the home, the check may be made out to both you and the lender. Anyone listed on the policy may need to sign the check.

For personal belongings, your policy may include replacement cost coverage. In that case, you may first receive the actual cash value, with the remaining amount paid after you replace the item and provide a receipt.

If your home isn’t livable, your policy may cover reasonable additional living expenses like hotel stays, meals, or storage. Be sure to keep receipts for anything you’ll submit for reimbursement.

5. After the Claim

Once your claim is closed, it’s a good time to review your coverage and make sure it still fits your needs. Filing multiple claims within a few years can sometimes affect your premiums, so we’re happy to discuss your options if you have concerns.