Within any business, there are of course setbacks. Some of these setbacks come with filing insurance claims due to your business. Sometimes, months will be great, while others aren’t so great. When you know what to do in a stressful time, you can minimize chaos both in the office and in your mind.
Unexpected events may occur that are completed out of your control and could be something that you couldn’t have prepared for. Things like fires, hurricanes, floods, and even someone breaking in. While some of these events can be quite rare, it’s important that you have something in place for that one time – huge cost.
Knowing how to re-establish yourself will ensure your business will function as normal fairly quickly. Doing so will help mitigate those potential damages and losses from the unexpected incident. Getting your business back to normal is the most important aspect of restoring peace within your business. If you’ve never filed an insurance claim before, check out these tips for doing so:
Breathe.
Contact your insurance company: You should know that if you have an insurance policy on your business, contact them as soon as you can. You’ll receive immediate assistance on what to do in your current situation. The will assist you in filing a claim, as well as making sure an adjust is out on the scene to complete a proper inspection.
Contact the police if the unexpected incident is a crime: This tip and your first tip may be interchangeable depending on the circumstances. You should always contact the police if you feel the unexpected incident was caused by malicious intent.
Review your insurance policy: While you can do this before or after you call your insurance company, it’s always worth reviewing after you’ve spoken to agent or an adjuster, so you can see the policy for yourself.
Preparing an inventory: Look back at the most recent inventory lists taken and assess what was damaged during the incident. Preparing this and providing proof, as well as receipts, will ensure that the insurance.
Proof of loss: During inventory taking, you’ll want to gather things for proof of loss. In doing so, you’ll be able to provide proof during the claim you’re having investigated. You must do this within 60 days.
Document any damages or changes to the property: Make sure to note any types of changes or damages done to your property by said incident, including any before and after photos if possible. Video is also a fantastic idea for those filing a claim. Always save receipts and save pieces that may have broken off.
Now that you’ve seen the basics on filing insurance claims as a business, you’ll want to make sure you always stay organized in a time of chaos, and make sure you have everything you need for the representatives and agents working on your case. Never settle for the first repair bid, and always do your research on other bids and facilities that may deliver you something better.
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