To file a renters insurance claim: keep everyone safe, report any crime to the police, document the damage, prevent further damage, then contact your insurer as soon as possible with photos and a list of what was lost. Here’s the process step by step, and how to avoid common mistakes that slow down payouts.
Step 1: Make sure everyone is safe
If there’s a fire, gas leak or serious water problem, leave and call emergency services first. Nothing you own is worth getting hurt over.
Step 2: Report crimes to the police
For theft or vandalism, file a police report right away and get the report number. Most insurers require it for theft claims.
Step 3: Tell your landlord
Your landlord needs to know about damage to the building and may need to file on their own policy. Put it in writing, too.
Step 4: Document everything
- Take photos and video of the damage before you clean up or throw anything away.
- Write down what happened, when and who you spoke to.
- Pull out your home inventory, receipts, bank or card statements and old photos showing your belongings.
Step 5: Prevent further damage
Take reasonable steps like turning off the water, covering a broken window or moving items out of a wet room. Keep receipts for anything you spend; these costs are often reimbursable. Your policy may require this, so don’t skip it.
Step 6: Contact your insurer
File by app, website or phone, as soon as you can. You’ll typically get a claim number and an adjuster. Tell them if you’ve been displaced; loss-of-use coverage can start paying for a hotel quickly.
Step 7: Submit your list of losses
List each damaged or stolen item with a description, approximate age, what you paid and what it would cost to replace. Be accurate. Exaggerating a claim is insurance fraud.
Step 8: Work with the adjuster and get paid
The adjuster may inspect the damage and ask questions. Once the claim is approved, you’re paid according to your coverage, minus your deductible. With replacement cost coverage, you may receive part of the payment first and the rest after you buy replacements. Here’s how that works.
Claim denied? Here’s what to do next. After a fire? Use this checklist.
When a claim might not be worth filing
If the loss is only slightly larger than your deductible, consider whether filing is worthwhile, since claims can affect your future premiums. Liability incidents are different: report those promptly even if you’re unsure, because late notice can jeopardize coverage.
Tips for a smoother claim
- Make a video home inventory before you need it. Use this checklist.
- Keep receipts for big purchases in cloud storage.
- Know your deductible and limits in advance.
- Keep a log of every call and email with your insurer.
New to this? Start with What is renters insurance?
This site offers general information, not insurance or legal advice. Coverage, prices and rules vary by insurer, policy and state, so always read your own policy and ask your insurer or agent about your situation.