How To File A Personal Lines Claim:

If you have a claim for your auto or home, you can file it directly with your insurance carrier.  Most make it very simple!

Typically the fastest and easiest way to file a claim is to use the carrier's app or website.  Always try that first, especially if you have an online account set up!

You can also call your carrier to file a claim.  Scroll down and we have listed phone numbers and websites for our main personal lines carriers for quick reference.

Not sure what company you're with or your policy number?  Visit our Client Center to access your policy information.

Important - Don't do any repairs until you speak to your claim representative!  You can stop further damage - like putting a tarp or cleaning up dangerous debris.  But don't fix anything or authorize repairs until you've talked to the insurance company.

Should I File A Claim?

Here are a few common questions we are asked (but you can always contact us to ask about your specific situation.).

"I'm not sure if I have enough damage for a claim?"  - We always recommend you get an estimate from a roofer, contractor, or body shop (depending on the claim) if you're not sure of the amount of damage.  You want it to be more than your deductible or it's better to avoid the claim.

"Will a claim make my rates go up?" - This is a difficult question to answer because there are many factors that affect rates.  At fault accidents do typically cause rate increases.  If you're unsure if you should file, get an estimate first and determine if it is worth it or contact us about the situation.

"Do you recommend roofers or body shops, etc?" - Our agency does not recommend specific contractors.  However most insurance companies have a preferred network and will recommend specific shops or providers depending on the claim.  Using preferred shops can also give extra benefits, so be sure to ask your adjuster who is recommended.

"What if the other person was at fault in the accident?" - This can get tricky.  If the other party was completely at fault in the accident and you have their insurance information, you can contact that carrier and start a claim.  Usually this works out fine!  However, sometimes the process is slower, especially if they have trouble contacting their insured.  If you have collision coverage, you can file on your own insurance and let your insurance company recover from the other party.  You may have to pay your deductible and wait for reimbursement in this situation.

"A friend backed into my car and offered to pay out of pocket to fix it.  Should I do that?"  - This can work out fine, but we only recommend it if you know the person and trust them.  Never work out a personal arrangement if injuries are involved.  And if it's a stranger, it's always better to go through insurance.

"Do I need to call the police after an accident?" - Yes, it is always better to have an official accident report for a claim.  Sometimes policy won't come out if the accident is in a parking lot or on private property, but it's always good to ask.  Police reports are not required, but it helps avoid the he said/she said later on or someone changing their story.