Quick Takeaways
- Home insurance claims are more common than many realize, with wind, fire and theft among the top causes. Agents can help clients prepare by educating them on risk mitigation strategies.
- A smooth claims process starts before a loss occurs. Encouraging clients to review their coverage, document valuables and act quickly after damage can prevent delays and complications.
- Agents play a crucial role beyond policy sales. Providing guidance during a claim strengthens client relationships, builds trust and reinforces your value as their go-to insurance expert.
Few moments test the client-agent relationship quite like home insurance claims. For homeowners, it often represents one of the most challenging experiences they’ll ever face — whether it’s the aftermath of a storm, a burst pipe or a break-in. For agents, these moments are an opportunity to step up by offering expertise and guidance when your clients need it most.
Home insurance claims are not only paperwork; they’re emotional turning points when your expertise is indispensable. By helping your clients navigate the claims process with confidence, you provide a roadmap for homeowners when their world feels upside down, helping them recover and feel truly supported when it matters most.
The most common home insurance claims
Home insurance claims are more common than many homeowners realize. According to the Insurance Information Institute, about 1 in 18 homes will experience a claim each year. While the causes vary, a few types of claims consistently top the list — and understanding them can help you better support your clients.
Wind and hail damage
In 2022, wind and hail damage accounted for nearly 41% of all homeowner claims, making them the leading causes of property damage. In storm-prone areas, high winds and hail can tear through roofs, batter siding and send outdoor furniture flying. While storms don’t always give you much notice, you can help your clients stay ahead of the damage by encouraging regular roof inspections and securing loose outdoor items before bad weather hits.
Related: How to prepare for an emergency before it happens
Water damage and freezing
While wind and hail top the list, water damage and freezing aren’t far behind, accounting for nearly 28% of home insurance claims in 2022. This is not the dramatic kind of disaster that makes the evening news, but burst pipes and leaks can cause extensive damage, often before homeowners even realize there’s a problem. Simple measures — like insulating pipes in winter or keeping gutters clean — can save clients from these all-too-common costly surprises.
Related: 9 ways to help homeowners winterize for cold weather
Fire and lightning damage
Fire and lightning may not be as common as other claims, but they often bring the most destruction. In 2022, they made up 22% of claims, yet the financial toll was far greater, with average payouts reaching $83,991. Unlike wind and water damage, fire can escalate in seconds, leaving little time to react. That’s why a working smoke alarm or an accessible fire extinguisher isn’t just helpful, it can be the difference between a close call and a total loss.
Related: After a wildfire: 10 recovery steps you need to take
Break-ins and theft
Although home break-ins and theft may seem rare, their emotional toll is undeniable. A stolen laptop or smashed window may only make up around 1% of all claims, but to your clients, it’s personal. These types of claims can leave a lasting impact. Recommending security systems or motion-sensor lighting can help your clients protect their space and most importantly, feel secure in their own home again.
Related: The latest in home electronic security trends
Steps to take for a hassle-free home insurance claims process
When disaster strikes, filing a claim can be one of the most overwhelming moments for a homeowner. That’s where you step in to help guide them through each step because filing a claim is not just about checking boxes; it’s about showing your clients they’re not alone.
1. Start with the policy
Begin by reviewing your clients’ coverage and encourage them to repeat this step annually. Many homeowners don’t realize that standard policies often exclude things like flood damage. Walking through gaps in coverage — before they need to file a claim — builds trust and ensures they’re better prepared.
2. Document the details
Clients who maintain detailed records of their home and belongings often see faster claims resolutions. Suggest keeping an updated inventory, complete with photos, videos and receipts. When the unexpected happens, these records can save precious time and frustration.
3. Act quickly
Timing matters. Remind clients to report damage as soon as it happens. Fast action speeds up the process and minimizes additional losses.
4. Prepare for the adjuster
Clients often feel unprepared when meeting with the adjuster. Walking them through what to expect and how to prepare — like having receipts, photos and repair estimates ready — can streamline the evaluation process and take a huge weight off their shoulders.
5. Inform the mortgage servicer
If there’s a mortgage on the property, remind clients that their servicer may need to approve claims-related payments. This step often surprises homeowners, so helping your clients navigate this extra step ensures the process moves smoothly.
6. Stay organized
Claims can take weeks or even months to resolve. Encourage clients to keep a detailed record of every conversation with their insurer and adjuster, along with any requested documents during the process.
Guiding clients through the toughest moments
For homeowners, filing a claim is never just about the cents and dollars; it’s about rebuilding their lives and sense of security. And that’s where you, as their agent, have the chance to shine. When you step in with knowledge, empathy and proactive guidance, you’re helping them navigate a complicated process and you’re showing them that they made the right choice working with you.
At its core, the claims process is paperwork, but it’s also about connection, trust and showing up when it matters. When clients see you as a resource they can rely on during difficult times, you’re not just meeting their expectations, you’re exceeding them. That’s what turns a good agent into a great one.