My Home Was Burglarized - Now What?

A home is a place that should make you feel comfortable and safe. Unfortunately, there are people out there that make us feel otherwise. FBI statistics tell us that a home theft and burglary happens every 14.6 seconds. No matter how safe you feel in your neighborhood, you may still be vulnerable. Are you prepared if your home is burglarized? Do you know what to expect when you file a claim? Let us help you!

Always be prepared.

When you buy something, make sure that you keep your receipts and document your purchase. Doing so will make it easier for you if you have to file a claim for stolen items.

Here are some tips on how to keep an inventory of your personal properties:

• Go through your belongings and make a list grouped by category, location in your home, value, etc. As much as possible, keep original receipts for valuable items.
• Take photos or make a video of your stuff and create a checklist. Find a safe spot to store your records (e.g. online repository or fire-proof box).

My home is burglarized, now what?

1. Make an inventory of your personal properties that are damaged or lost.
2. Contact the police authorities and file a report.
3. Call your insurer and report a claim.
4. Document any damages to the home’s structure or personal belongings.
5. Work with an adjuster to check insurance policy and police report.
6. Do cooperate with your insurer during inspection and investigation.

File an insurance claim.

When reporting a claim, make sure you follow these tips:

• Your inventory checklist will help you identify what is damaged or lost.
• Your claims report should include the following information about the damaged or stolen property:
  • What brand was the item
  • What model the item was
  • How much the item cost
  • Where you purchased the item
  • When you bought the item
  • Never get rid of the damaged property immediately. Your adjuster may have to review it to complete your claim.

After you’ve filed a claim, your adjuster will usually call you within 24 hours. To expedite the process, you should have a copy of your insurance policy with you.

Before making the payment…

Your insurer may have to conduct an investigation and inspection of your claim. An investigation will let your insurer verify your claim and determine whether additional documentation is needed. Meanwhile, an inspection may be required to assess the physical damage.

When the claim is settled…

During the final step of making a claim, you’ll be paid for the covered property that was damaged or lost by your policy after a deductible and applicable depreciation. A deductible is the agreed amount on your policy that you’ll have to pay out-of-pocket. You will be provided with documentation regarding the claims process.

Don’t wait until you are burglarized before you insure your home properly. Here at Roper Insurance Services, you can get home insurance that you can personalize according to your needs. Our qualified agents can help you as you maneuver through the confusing process of acquiring insurance. Feel free to talk to us! Call us at (828) 388-1851 or visit us at our office today. You may also get a free home insurance quote from us!