Filing an insurance claim can feel daunting and overwhelming – especially if it’s after an accident, storm, or an unexpected life event.
From a minor accident to a sudden leak, life’s surprises can happen when you least expect them. That’s why simply being prepared is one of the smartest steps you can take.
With the right plan and trusted guidance, navigating the unexpected becomes a whole lot easier — and far less stressful — for you, your family, or your business. Whether it’s personal or commercial coverage, these quick tips from HAWK will help you stay ready when it matters the most.
✅ 1. Know What’s Covered Before You Need It
Tip: Review your policies at least once a year. Schedule a time to address your needs with your HAWK adviser. (Bonus tip: you can modify your policy any time; it doesn’t have to be near your renewal date!)
Example: Let’s say a tree falls on your roof during a storm. You assume your homeowner’s policy covers tree removal and temporary lodging — but it turns out your policy only covers structural damage, not debris cleanup. A quick annual policy review can clarify details you might not think to ask until after the fact and even given you a chance to add extended coverage.
“HAWK will always have a discussion regarding the type of loss, have it looked at by a licensed specialist, and then make the decision based on the deductible – as well as whether or not it would even be covered. We want to make sure our clients have the appropriate knowledge to make their decision as to whether or not they file.”
– HAWK Advisers Personal Lines Adviser
📸 2. Document Everything (Before & After)
Tip: Snap photos or videos of your belongings, property, and vehicles before any damage occurs. Keep your adviser in the loop as you take these precautionary steps.
Example: A client documented their belongings, property, and vehicles with photos and videos ahead of time — well before any damage occurred. They also kept their adviser informed throughout the process. When disaster struck and it came time to file a claim, they were able to clearly and easily report their losses.
📁 3. Keep Records Handy
Tip: Store receipts for high-value items and a copy of your policy where you can access them quickly — digitally and physically. Ensure you have copies of important policy information about these items, as well.
Example: A homeowner returns back from a trip to find their home burglarized and missing high-value items. They file a theft claim with their saved receipts for their TV, laptop, and camera in a Dropbox folder. Because everything was organized in advance, they were able to quickly share the documents—helping their claim get processed more efficiently and accurately.
📝 4. Write Down What Happened ASAP
Tip: After an incident, record the details of the occurrence as soon as possible while they’re still fresh in your mind in addition to taking photos of the scene. If another person is involved, be sure to document their information, too.
Example: After a minor car accident, a policyholder wrote down the location, time, weather conditions, and what each driver said. A few days later, the other driver’s story changed — but because the client had notes and photos from the scene, the claim was resolved in their favor.
☎️ 5. Call Your Agent First
Tip: Don’t rush to file a claim online or through an app without guidance. Your HAWK adviser can help you decide the best next steps.
Example: A business owner had minor water damage to their office floor. Instead of filing a claim immediately, they called HAWK first. HAWK reviewed their deductible and coverage and determined the repair costs were only slightly higher than their deductible — filing the claim would’ve raised their premium unnecessarily. (Bonus insight: Even if no payment is made, once you file a claim, it stays on your record for a number of years!)
“We always want to educate the insureds on their coverage by reviewing their options. It is so important to make them aware at the time of loss so that they know whether or not to file a claim.”
– HAWK Advisers Personal Lines Adviser
🛠 6. Get Repair Estimates
Tip: For home or auto repairs, get at least two estimates to support your claim.
Example: A homeowner dealing with storm damage to their roof received one estimate for $12,000. They got a second quote for $7,500 from another reputable contractor. This gave them leverage and context to work with the insurance adjuster to ensure a fair payout.
⏳ 7. Be Responsive
Tip: The faster you return calls, emails, or submit documentation, the faster your claim can move forward. HAWK will work with you to ensure your claim is resolved swiftly and properly.
Example: A renter submitted a claim for water-damaged furniture but didn’t respond to two follow-up emails for almost three weeks. The delay slowed down the entire process and pushed back their reimbursement timeline. Simple follow-through can mean faster results.
Filing a claim can feel overwhelming, but with these tips — and personalized support from a HAWK adviser — you’ll be able to navigate the process with confidence and clarity.
Let us be your guide. Click the button below to get in touch.
DISCLAIMER: The examples provided are fictional and do not reflect real client experiences. They are intended solely to illustrate the tips shared. These tips are meant as helpful suggestions — not requirements or guarantees. They should not be interpreted as definitive advice.
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