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Mississippi is one of the states with the highest loss costs of insurance claims, making it important to understand the steps involved in filing a home insurance claim. When a storm, fire, or other event causes damage to your home, understanding how to effectively file an insurance claim is key to securing a fair outcome.

The Morgan Law Group takes you through the necessary steps to file a homeowner’s insurance claim in Mississippi, so you can avoid common pitfalls and get the compensation you deserve. For assistance, consider consulting our home insurance claims lawyers in Mississippi to help you navigate the process effectively.

1. Inspect Home Damage

The first step after your home sustains damage is to perform a thorough inspection. Carefully evaluate the condition of your property and identify any areas of visible damage. This might include roof leaks, damaged windows, or other structural harm. 

Having a well-documented inspection of all damage to your property will not only help you understand the extent of the loss but also prove valuable when submitting a claim to your insurer.

2. Understand Your Home Insurance Deductibles

Next, it’s crucial to understand your home insurance deductibles before filing a claim. A deductible is the amount you agree to pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. 

Deductibles may vary based on the type of event causing the damage. For example, hurricanes may have different deductible rates than other types of damage. 

Understanding these deductibles will help you determine whether filing a claim is worth it. If the cost of damage is close to your deductible, it might not make financial sense to proceed with a claim, as it may increase your premiums without significant coverage benefits.

3. Consult a Contractor 

If you find significant damage during your inspection, it is wise to consult with a reputable contractor. A contractor can help assess the true extent of the damage and give an estimate for repairs. This information is invaluable because it provides you with an independent assessment of the costs involved.

Consulting with a contractor also allows you to decide whether the repair costs justify filing a claim. Insurers may sometimes downplay the extent of the damage, but having an independent contractor’s opinion ensures you have a fair estimate for the work that needs to be done.

4. Contact Your Insurance Company

Once you have inspected the damage and reviewed your deductible, it’s time to contact your insurance company. Reporting the damage promptly is important, as most insurance policies have strict deadlines for filing claims. You will need to provide details about the damage and any relevant documentation you have gathered.

During this initial communication, your insurance company will assign an adjuster to handle your claim. It’s helpful to keep a record of all correspondence, including the names of representatives you speak with and what was discussed.

5. Document the Loss

Thorough documentation is crucial to a successful homeowner’s insurance claim. In addition to your initial photos and notes, it is recommended to take video footage of the damage. 

Make sure your documentation includes:

  • Photos of all affected areas (both close-ups and wide shots)
  • Receipts for any temporary repairs you make
  • An inventory of damaged personal belongings
  • Any estimates provided by contractors

6. Prepare a Proof of Loss Form

The proof of loss form is an official statement to your insurance company that details the scope of the damage and provides an estimated value of your losses. This form serves as the backbone of your insurance claim and helps move the process forward. 

Be as detailed as possible when preparing the proof of loss. Missing or incomplete information can lead to delays or even denials of your claim. If you are unsure of how to fill out the proof of loss form, consult with a Mississippi homeowner insurance lawyer or an experienced public adjuster to make sure it is done correctly.

Why You Should Not Accept the First Offer 

After reviewing your homeowner insurance claim, the insurance company may provide an initial settlement offer. It is common for this first offer to be lower than what you are entitled to receive. Insurers may attempt to minimize their payouts, often providing an amount that does not fully cover the extent of your loss.

Avoid accepting the first offer without fully understanding your rights and reviewing the offer with an expert, like a home insurance lawyer or contractor. Often, you can negotiate a higher amount by providing additional documentation or challenging the initial assessment made by the insurance company. Remember, once you accept an offer, you usually cannot pursue additional compensation, so it’s crucial to be certain it meets your needs.

What You Can Do if Insurance Claim Disputes Arise

Insurance claim disputes can arise for various reasons – whether it’s a disagreement over coverage, the amount offered, or delays in the claim process. 

If you find yourself in this situation, there are a few actions you can take:

  • Review Your Policy: Go over your policy documents to understand what is covered and ensure you meet all the requirements.
  • Seek an Independent Appraisal: If you and your insurer cannot agree on the value of your loss, you may opt for an independent appraisal.
  • Consult an Insurance Lawyer: Legal representation can help resolve disputes. An experienced insurance lawyer understands Mississippi insurance laws governing homeowner’s insurance and can negotiate effectively on your behalf.

The home insurance claim process can be stressful, especially when dealing with insurers who might not have your best interests in mind. The Morgan Law Group has extensive experience representing Mississippi homeowners against insurance companies that act in bad faith or attempt to underpay claims.  If you are struggling with your homeowner’s claim or facing disputes from your insurer, call us today at (228) 641-9552 or complete our online form and have your free consultation.