A claim is the formal request you file with your insurance company asking them to pay for damage to your property. From the insurer's perspective, it's an event with a unique number, an assigned adjuster, and a deadline.
The lifecycle
- Report the damage to your carrier (phone or app). You'll receive a claim number.
- Adjuster inspection — typically within 1–4 weeks of reporting.
- Statement of Loss issued — the adjuster's written estimate.
- First payment (ACV) — issued shortly after.
- Repairs performed by the contractor of your choice.
- Final/recoverable depreciation payment — once you submit invoices.
Critical deadline
Most policies require you to file the claim within 1 year of the storm event. Miss it and you typically lose all coverage for the damage. Track this date the day the storm passes.