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The Importance of Record Keeping for Insurance Claims

The Importance of Record Keeping for Insurance Claims

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Imagine for a minute that the worst has happened: you’ve suffered a personal injury, or you’ve been the victim of water damage, a fire, or a flood. Sounds stressful, doesn’t it? But what we often don’t realize until we’re in these difficult situations, is that the aftermath can be worse. We’re not talking about sweeping up the glass after a branch comes crashing through your kitchen window during hurricane season, or the worry of having your arm x-rayed after a traffic accident, we’re talking about making the claim. The aftermath of a stressful event is the time to be smart, pay attention to record keeping, and fight for what is yours. 

Details, details, details

The expression ‘the devil is in the detail’ applies to record-keeping when making a claim, because the more information you can provide, the better. Leave nothing out: you never know how useful it will be until you are in a tough spot. Ensuring a detailed claim will strengthen your case. Adjustors are swamped with claims, so make sure yours doesn’t slide to the bottom of the pile.

After the storm has passed, your claim can be smooth sailing – but only if you follow these tips on record keeping:

  1. Photos

Before and after photos of your home are helpful when it comes to water damage, wind, or fire damage. Taking photos of broken glass or ceiling stains is essential. 

When it comes to auto and bicycle accidents, before it’s too late, take photos of the scene of an accident and the surroundings or ask a witness if you’re badly injured.

  1. Receipts

Proof of payment provides value to a damaged or lost item – for example, your flatscreen TV, electronics, appliances, flooring, or jewelry. No receipt? No reimbursement!

  1. Inventory

Compare your home inventory before and after the event to help you document what is missing or damaged. This will save you time by being prepared in advance of an incident.

  1. Medical records

If you’ve sustained an injury, retain all relevant appointment letters, scans, x-rays, medical reports, doctors’ certificates, and evidence.

  1. Correspondence

Document all correspondence with the insurance adjuster including name and contact details, plus dates, times, and content of all phone conversations and emails.

  1. Contractors

Record details of anyone working on repairs to your home. Obtain reliable estimates from reputable contractors. Written bids must include details of materials to be used in repairs, car repairs or parts required, and prices on a line-by-line basis. Remember, permanent repairs must not be carried out until insurers have inspected your losses. Keep all damaged personal property until a settlement is reached. 

  1. Time

Our final piece of advice is that time is of the essence – once you and your loved ones are safe, start to gather records, and get them to the insurance company right away. Give your claim the best shot by having the information to hand when it is asked of you. 

Beat them at their own game

At Jenkins Law PL, we know that insurance companies are notoriously slippery. If they can find a loophole to avoid paying your claim, they’ll use it. In fact, their adjusters are skilled at this very thing: that’s why claims are often delayed, underpaid, or even denied. Don’t be an amateur with patchy records and late claims. Always remain one step ahead. You have enough to think about getting your health or home back on track and looking after your family. Allow our skilled and talented insurance claim lawyers in Florida to guide you through the maze of insurance claims. We are experienced in this specialized field, and we’re qualified, caring, and professional. We know the rules of the game, and we came to win.

So, get in touch and we will get you on the right path to claiming the maximum compensation. 

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