Plan ahead
- Write a list and take videos or photos of what's inside your home.
- Write your personal information on large items, such as TVs or stereos.
- Take photos or videos of the outside of your home from several places.
- Ask an appraiser to determine the worth of valuable items, such as jewelry, antiques, stamps, coins, and other collectibles.
- Keep your documents and records in a safe place away from your home. These include your insurance policy, list of items at home, receipts, appraisals of valuable items, and photos and videos.
Resolving and paying claims
Your insurer must:
- Tell you they received your claim within 10 business days, unless they pay you first.
- Finish investigating within 30 days of receiving your claim, unless they can't reasonably do so.
- Tell you if they need more time to accept or deny your claim. They have 15 business days after receiving your proof to tell you why.
- Tell you why, in writing, if they don't finish investigating within 45 days of receiving your proof. They must follow up every 30 days until they finish investigating.
If you disagree with your insurer on the amount of your loss
If you and your insurer disagree on what your loss is worth, you can hire a private appraiser to determine the value. Read your homeowner insurance policy for more information. You have to follow the insurer’s process to exercise your right to appraisal. This typically involves letting the company know.
Important: If you file a claim, your insurer may decide to stop covering you or increase the cost of your coverage.
For details on these requirements, see (WAC) 284-30-360(1), (WAC) 284-30-370 and (WAC) 284-30-380(3).