Insurance claims for property damage: coverage, filing, and denials

Where do you start with a property damage claim?

Start with safety and the source of the damage, then your camera. Photograph and video every damaged area and item before anything is cleaned, moved or thrown out. Then report the loss. Most people already know this step: in a 2026 survey reported by R&R Magazine, 76% of homeowners said they would call their insurance company first after a disaster. If you are still in the first day, the emergency pages list what to do before the claim.

How does a claim usually unfold?

Most claims follow the same path. You give notice. The insurer assigns an adjuster, who inspects and writes an estimate. You may be asked for a sworn statement of your losses with receipts and inventories. The insurer then pays, partly pays, or denies, and explains why in writing. Along the way you are expected to take reasonable steps to prevent more damage, such as stopping a leak or tarping a roof, and to keep receipts for that work.

Timing rules vary by policy and by state. In Florida, §627.70132 requires notice of an initial or reopened claim within one year after the date of loss, and a supplemental claim within 18 months. Your policy may set shorter steps after notice, so read the duties section.

What does your policy actually cover?

Coverage turns on two things: what caused the damage, and what your policy says about that cause. A sudden burst pipe is treated differently from a slow leak. Flood is usually excluded from homeowners policies and covered by a separate flood policy. Mold and sewer backup often carry their own limits or need an added endorsement. Your declarations page lists your deductibles, limits and endorsements. Start with water damage coverage, mold coverage and sewer backup coverage, then confirm with your insurer.

How big are typical claims?

The Insurance Information Institute reports average payments over 2019–2023 of $14,747 for wind and hail claims, $15,400 for water damage and freezing, and $88,170 for fire and lightning. In 2023, 5.3% of insured homes had a claim. Those averages help you sense the scale, but your own estimate depends on your home and your policy.

Federal disaster aid comes after insurance

If your area has a federal disaster declaration, FEMA may help with needs insurance does not cover. FEMA says it cannot provide assistance for losses covered by insurance, and that insured applicants must file with their insurer first. Our FEMA assistance guide walks through the order.

When a claim is denied or underpaid

Ask for the denial in writing with the policy language it relies on. Then read what to do when your claim is denied. Options can include asking for a re-inspection, submitting more evidence, or using the policy’s appraisal process. A licensed public adjuster can represent you for a fee, and public adjuster fees explains how that fee is set. Your state insurance department and an attorney are also options.

Your insurer and your contractor

Insurers sometimes recommend a contractor from their network. Read using your insurer’s preferred vendor before you agree, and watch for storm chaser scams after big events.