Claims 101 · Minnesota policyholders
When property damage happens — whether it’s a fire, a burst pipe, a hailstorm, or wind damage — most homeowners focus on the physical damage in front of them. That’s understandable. But what you do in the first 48 hours can make or break your insurance claim. Here’s exactly what to do.
1. Make sure everyone is safe
This sounds obvious but it bears saying. If there’s structural damage, fire, or flooding, get everyone out and don’t re-enter until it’s been deemed safe. Your claim can wait. Your family can’t.
2. Document everything before you touch it
Before you start cleaning up, moving things, or making repairs, take photos and video of everything. Every room. Every damaged item. Every wall, floor, ceiling, and exterior surface. More is more. You cannot over-document.
Turn on your phone’s location services so your photos are automatically date and location stamped. If you have a video camera, do a full walkthrough narrating what you’re seeing.
3. Make emergency repairs to prevent further damage
Your policy requires you to mitigate — meaning you have an obligation to prevent additional damage from occurring. If your roof is open to the sky, cover it with a tarp. If a pipe burst, shut off the water. Board up broken windows.
Keep every receipt for emergency repairs. These costs are typically covered under your policy. Do not make permanent repairs until your claim has been documented — doing so could hurt your ability to prove the extent of the damage.
4. Notify your insurance company
Call your insurance company to open a claim as soon as possible. Most policies require you to report losses “promptly” — and Minnesota law sets a one-year deadline for filing hail claims from the date of the storm, though some policies have shorter windows. Don’t wait.
When you call, give only basic facts: the date of the loss, the type of damage, and your contact information. Do not speculate about cause, estimate repair costs, or admit fault for anything. You’ll have time to provide a complete statement later.
5. Get your own inspection before the insurance adjuster comes
Your insurance company will send their own adjuster to inspect the damage. That adjuster works for the insurance company — not for you. Their job is to assess the damage in a way that protects the insurer’s interests.
Before that happens, get your own professional inspection. A roofing contractor, restoration company, or public adjuster can document the full scope of damage before the insurance adjuster arrives. This gives you an independent record to compare against the insurer’s assessment.
6. Keep a detailed log of everything
From the moment you open your claim, write down every conversation you have with your insurance company. Note the date, time, who you spoke with, and what was said. Save every email. Keep every document they send you. This paper trail can be invaluable if your claim is disputed.
7. Don’t sign anything until you understand it
Insurance companies sometimes ask policyholders to sign documents early in the claims process. Do not sign anything — including a proof of loss or a release — until you fully understand what it means and are confident your claim has been fully and fairly evaluated. If you’re not sure, call us before you sign.
Not sure if your claim is being handled fairly?
We offer free consultations. We’ll review your claim and tell you honestly where you stand.
Ryan Wagner is the founder of Lighthouse Claims Consulting, a licensed public adjusting firm serving Minnesota homeowners and business owners.