5 Dos & Don’ts When Making a Claim on Your Insurance
Insurance is a crucial aspect of our lives, providing protection and financial security in case of any unforeseen circumstances. However, making a claim can be an overwhelming task, and there are several things you need to keep in mind to ensure that the process goes smoothly.
The main dos and don’ts to follow when making a claim include:
Do:
1) Report the claim immediately – The first and foremost thing you should do when you experience a loss or damage covered by your insurance policy is to report it to your insurance broker immediately. Delaying the notification can affect the validity of the claim, and you might not receive the full amount of compensation you are entitled to.
2) Gather evidence – Collect as much evidence as possible to support your claim. This can include photographs, videos, receipts, and any other relevant documents. These pieces of evidence will help your broker assess the extent of the damage and determine the appropriate compensation.
3) Read your policy – Familiarise yourself with the terms and conditions of your policy. This will help you understand what is covered, the limits of the policy, and any deductibles or excesses that may apply. Knowing this information beforehand can help you avoid any surprises later on in the process.
4) Be honest – Always be honest with your insurance broker when making a claim. Providing inaccurate or false information can lead to the denial of your claim and can have severe consequences.
5) Keep records – Keep detailed records of all communications with your broker, including emails and phone calls. This will help you keep track of the progress of your claim and any important information that may be exchanged.
Don’t:
1) Exaggerate – Never exaggerate the extent of the damage or loss. This can result in your claim being reduced or rejected. Always be truthful and accurate when describing the damage or loss.
2) Delay providing information – Don’t delay providing any information that your broker may request. This can prolong the process and lead to unnecessary delays.
3) Sign anything without reading it – Always read any documents or forms before signing them. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to ask your broker for clarification.
4) Assume everything is covered – Don’t assume that everything is covered under your policy. Always check with your broker to confirm what is and isn’t covered.
5) Accept a settlement without considering it carefully – Make sure you understand what the settlement entails and whether it covers the full extent of your loss or damage.
Making a claim with your insurance broker can be a straightforward process if you follow protocol. Always report the claim immediately, gather evidence, read your policy, be honest, and keep records. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to in case of any loss or damage covered by your insurance policies.
