How to File a Homeowners Insurance Claim

File a homeowners claim in six steps: ensure safety, document the damage, prevent further loss, contact your insurer, work with the adjuster, and get paid.

By the Home & Dime Editorial Team · Last updated 2026

Step by step

1. Ensure safety and stop ongoing danger.
2. Document everything before cleanup.
3. Prevent further damage (keep receipts).
4. Contact your insurer promptly.
5. Meet the adjuster; get your own estimates.
6. Review the settlement and get paid.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have?

Sooner is better — policies expect prompt notice.

Get my own estimate?

Yes — it protects you from lowball offers.

The bottom line

Document first, mitigate, file promptly, and back your claim with your own estimates.

Related guides

• How Insurance Claims Work
• Does Filing an Insurance Claim Raise Your Rates?

Sources: Insurance Information Institute (iii.org); Consumer Financial Protection Bureau; FEMA; state Departments of Insurance. General information, not insurance advice.