How do you prepare a home insurance claim?

Contact the insurer listed on your policy about an existing loss. This site’s phone number is for home insurance quote requests, not an insurer’s claim line or an emergency service.

First: safety and prompt notice

Follow emergency instructions and avoid unsafe inspections. When safe, notify the insurer and ask about reporting deadlines, immediate duties and the claim reference number. There is no universal timeline published here.

The TDI guide recommends prompt notice, a damaged-property list, photos where possible, temporary measures and retaining receipts. Its Texas-specific claims deadlines are not presented as national rules.

Keep a clear record

• Date and description of the event and when damage was discovered.
• Photographs, inventory and purchase records where available.
• Temporary repair and additional expense receipts.
• Written estimates and inspection reports.
• Communications, names and claim reference numbers.

Ask before discarding damaged items or undertaking nonurgent permanent repairs, while still meeting reasonable duties to prevent further damage safely.

Review the settlement explanation

Ask which policy section applies, what limit and deductible were used, how depreciation was calculated and whether further documentation or replacement affects payment. Keep disagreements specific and in writing.

If you need a complaint or dispute process, consult your state’s insurance department and applicable policy terms. This guide does not determine coverage or provide legal representation.

See replacement cost versus ACV and loss of use for related terms. For storm damage, review the separate wind and hail coverage guide. If you are considering a future policy change after the loss, read can you switch after a claim?; the claim itself remains with the insurer that covered the loss.

Sources & review status

Prepared Oct 14, 2026 • Unapproved draft

Editorial draft prepared October 14, 2026. Not yet approved by an insurance or legal reviewer. These sources explain general concepts; your policy, endorsements, insurer and state rules control your coverage.

Reference materials

• Texas Department of Insurance — Home insurance guideRetrieved and reviewed October 14, 2026. Texas consumer guidance; used for general policy concepts, with Texas-specific examples identified rather than generalized.

Before publication

• Confirm each coverage statement against the relevant policy form and current national or state guidance.
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