Important Coverage Information: This video provides general guidance about the insurance claims process. Coverage varies by policy and the circumstances of each loss. Insurance carriers determine claims outcomes based on applicable policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Contact your Wells Insurance advisor or insurance carrier with questions about your specific situation.

Edited Video Transcript

Navigating the Insurance Claims Process

Filing an insurance claim often comes at a stressful or emotional time, following an unexpected loss or damage to your property. While no one wants to experience a loss, insurance is intended to help manage the financial impact of covered events.

At Wells Insurance, our role is to help clients navigate the claims process, understand their responsibilities, and identify appropriate next steps.

Taking the First Steps After a Loss

If you experience a loss, contact your insurance agent or carrier as soon as practical. Providing timely notice, documenting the damage, and taking reasonable steps to prevent additional damage are important parts of the claims process.

Insurance policies may include specific conditions and responsibilities for policyholders following a loss. For example, if a hurricane damages your roof and water enters your home, it may be appropriate to arrange temporary protection, such as having a qualified contractor install a tarp, when it is safe to do so.

Take photographs or videos of the damage, retain receipts for emergency repairs, and communicate with your insurance carrier about the next steps. Avoid making permanent repairs or disposing of damaged materials before consulting your carrier, unless necessary for safety or to prevent further damage.

Working With Your Claims Adjuster

After a claim is reported, the insurance carrier will typically assign an adjuster to evaluate the circumstances of the loss, assess the damage, and review the applicable policy provisions.

During major weather events, such as hurricanes, claims volume can increase significantly, potentially extending response and inspection times. Maintaining photographs, receipts, and other documentation can help support the claims review process.

Your insurance agent can help you understand the process, communicate with the carrier, and address questions that may arise. Ultimately, claim and coverage determinations are made by the insurance carrier based on the facts of the loss and the terms and conditions of the policy.

What to Do After an Auto Accident

If you are involved in an automobile accident, prioritize everyone's safety and seek medical attention when necessary. Contact law enforcement as appropriate and follow applicable reporting requirements.

When it is safe to do so, exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved. Document the scene, including vehicle damage, the location, and any relevant circumstances.

When speaking with others at the scene, focus on providing accurate, factual information rather than speculating about fault or responsibility.

Contact your insurance agent or carrier to discuss the incident, applicable coverage, and available claims options. Depending on the circumstances, a claim may be pursued through your own insurer or another driver's insurance carrier.

Understanding Flood Damage and Other Water-Related Losses

Not all water damage is treated the same way under an insurance policy. The source and circumstances of the water damage can make a significant difference in determining which coverage may apply.

For example, flooding can result from overflowing rivers or coastal waters, storm surge, or the unusual and rapid accumulation of surface water from heavy rainfall. Standard homeowners insurance policies generally exclude flood damage, which typically requires separate flood insurance.

Water damage caused by a sudden and accidental plumbing failure, such as a burst pipe or water heater leak, may be covered under a homeowners policy, depending on the circumstances and policy provisions.

Flood insurance may be available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurance carriers.

Because policies, exclusions, and coverage conditions vary, it is important to review the circumstances of a loss with your insurance agent or carrier rather than assume that a particular type of water damage is covered.

When to Contact Wells Insurance

If you experience a loss or are uncertain about how to proceed with a potential claim, Wells Insurance is available to help you understand the process and discuss your next steps.

Some situations may require contacting your insurance carrier directly, particularly when immediate assistance is needed outside regular business hours.

As an independent insurance agency, Wells Insurance is committed to advocating for our clients, helping them communicate with their carriers, and providing guidance throughout the claims process.

When you have questions about a claim, reach out to Wells Insurance. We're here to help you navigate what comes next.

Editor's note: This transcript has been edited for clarity, readability, and general insurance information. Coverage and claims decisions depend on the specific policy, circumstances of the loss, applicable exclusions, and carrier determination.

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