It is important that you file business insurance claims immediately after an incident occurs. Any delay in filing a claim with your insurance company can delay the claims process and the time it takes to receive funds. You should comprehensively report the damages to your own business property as well as damages to any third-party assets in the incident. If you work with a Trusted Choice member agent, you will be in good hands. Your agent will help you to navigate the claims process as quickly and painlessly as possible.
Here are some guidelines on how to systematically file claims for damage to your business assets.
Assess the situation and contact emergency services
It probably goes without saying, but be sure to call for emergency services if there is severe damage, someone is injured, or if there is an ongoing hazard. Complete the required police reports and be sure to retain a copy of any reports for your own records and for your insurance company.
Contact your insurance agent
Provide all details of the incident to your insurance agent, including any data that will support your claim. The records you provide could be anything from the findings of a forensic accountant to documentation of cyber-crimes or pictures of an on-the-job accident. Your agent will assist you with any paperwork that needs to be completed to start the claims process.
Work with the adjuster
The insurance company will assign an insurance adjuster to your claim. The adjuster is responsible for verifying damages and providing guidance as you proceed. In the event of a small claim, your adjuster may settle the claim at the time of a visit to your work site. For a large claim, such as a work place fire, a severe worker injury, cyber-crimes, fraud or embezzlement, typically an investigative process will be required to gather all of the pertinent information before the insurance company can settle the claim.