Duties After A Property Loss

It is very common after a property loss that a policyholder will say something like, "We didn't know what to do." Addressing damage done to one's home or business can be a daunting task when coupled with the question of whether to file an insurance claim or not. I wanted to outline the required condition's in most all property insurance policies so that you are well aware of what should be done.

     1. Duties After a Loss
            In case of a loss to covered property, we have no duty to provide coverage under this coverage form if the failure to comply with the following duties is prejudicial to us. These duties must be performed either by you, an "insured" seeking coverage, or a representative of either:
            4. Protect the property from further damage. If repairs to the property are required, you must:
                    a. Make reasonable and necessary repairs to protect the property; and
                    b. Keep an accurate record of repair expenses.

       2. Reasonable Repairs
                a. We will pay the reasonable cost incurred by you for the necessary measures taken solely to protect covered property that is damaged by a Peril Insured Against from the further damage.
                b. If the measures taken involve repair to other damaged property, we will only pay if that property is covered under this coverage form and the damage is caused by a Peril Insured Against.

A good idea is to always take photos of the problem before making repairs, if you do not have a camera or phone with a camera, you are probably living in the stone age but most contractors do and will generally help their customers out that way.

In the event of needing to subrogate a property loss, it is always helpful for the insured to hold on to a part or appliance that's failed and caused the damage to the property, and give it to the claims rep once they arrive.

Taking these actions can save cost and frustration down the road. It could also save the client from even having to pursue a claim.

*Some information here was taken from West Bend Mutual

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