Insurance Claim Mistakes

When disaster strikes—be it fire, storm damage, water intrusion, or theft—your first instinct is to recover and get back to normal as quickly as possible. For property owners, that often means filing an insurance claim. But this process, while seemingly straightforward, is filled with complexities that can cost you time, money, and peace of mind if not handled correctly.

At Atlantic Adjusting Co. Inc., we’ve helped hundreds of policyholders avoid costly pitfalls. In this article, we highlight the top five mistakes we see property owners make when filing insurance claims—and how you can avoid them.

1. Failing to Document the Damage Properly

One of the biggest mistakes is not capturing enough evidence after the damage occurs. Taking just a few photos may seem sufficient, but it often isn’t enough to support a full claim.

📸 What to do instead:

Photograph every room, damaged and undamaged
Take videos that show the overall scope
Save all receipts for emergency repairs or temporary housing

The more documentation you have, the stronger your claim will be. At Atlantic Adjusting Co. Inc., we guide clients on exactly what and how to document damage for the strongest case.

2. Delaying the Claim Process

Time is not on your side when it comes to insurance. Waiting too long to notify your insurance company can result in claim denial due to policy deadlines.

⏰ What to do instead:

Notify your insurance provider immediately
Follow up in writing to create a record
Consult a public adjuster early in the process

Quick action ensures compliance with policy terms and expedites the restoration process. We recommend calling Atlantic Adjusting Co. Inc. at (888) 516-ADJUST as soon as possible for expert guidance.

3. Relying Solely on the Insurance Company’s Adjuster

The adjuster sent by your insurance company does not work for you—they represent the insurance provider’s interests. Their job is to settle the claim quickly and at the lowest possible cost.

🤝 What to do instead:
Hire a licensed public adjuster like Atlantic Adjusting Co. Inc. to represent your interests.
We conduct an independent assessment to ensure all damages—both visible and hidden—are included in your claim.

4. Not Understanding the Policy Details

Insurance policies are filled with fine print, exclusions, and coverage limits. Misunderstanding these can lead to denied or underpaid claims. For broader consumer protection information, you can consult the Federal Trade Commission’s website.

📘 What to do instead:

Review your full policy, not just the declarations page
Ask questions about exclusions and coverage caps
Work with professionals who understand insurance legalese

Our experts at Atlantic Adjusting Co. Inc. help clients interpret their policies so they know what to expect and how to proceed.

5. Accepting the First Settlement Offer

Insurance companies often make a quick offer that might seem generous—but it may not cover the full scope of damage. Once you accept and sign, it’s nearly impossible to reopen your claim.

💰 What to do instead:

Get a second opinion from a public adjuster
Compare the settlement offer with your documented losses
Negotiate—don’t just accept

Our team will analyze the offer and negotiate aggressively to maximize your settlement.

Avoiding Mistakes = Faster, Fairer Claims

Filing an insurance claim doesn’t have to be stressful or risky. By avoiding these common mistakes and partnering with a knowledgeable public adjuster, you can protect your investment and your peace of mind.

If you’ve experienced damage to your property, don’t go through the process alone. Let Atlantic Adjusting Co. Inc. help you get the settlement you deserve.

📞 Call us today at (888) 516-ADJUST or visit us online at https://atlanticadjustingcompany.com to schedule a free consultation.

Insurance Claim Mistakes | Property Insurance Claims