Ask a Broker: Claims Process

I’ve never filed an insurance claim before. What should I expect?

Depending on whether it’s your car, home or business, a loss is never ideal. The most important thing you can do is collect as much information as possible and be sure to file the claim right away.

“As your broker, we want to assist you in the process and provide guidance through every step. We encourage you to not only contact the insurance company, but to let your broker know as well,” says Wendy Moore-Whaley, BrokerLink broker.

“We’ll confirm your coverage, review with you the details of the incident, and advise if any paperwork needs to be completed.”

If you’ve been in a car accident, it’s important to get the other driver’s information and details of the accident, including witness statements and police reports for any damage over $2,000 in Alberta and Ontario. Being in an accident can be stressful and confusing, so ensure you are prepared to record all the details required. By reviewing the BrokerLink accident checklist, you can learn what's important to know about accidents.

For business insurance claims, be sure to contact your assigned BrokerLink commercial broker within one business day to report your loss.

“Business claims are slightly different than personal as we’ll help to complete the Proof of Loss report and send to the insurance company, along with confirming coverage. Documentation and details are also important so be sure you have any inventory numbers, financial records, employee information and a property appraisal stored safely off your business premises”, says Stephen White, BrokerLink commercial broker.

As part of the claims process, you will be assigned a claims adjuster who will investigate the details of your claim, review coverage, and facilitate repairs or replacement.

For personal insurance claims, you will need to provide the claims adjuster with a comprehensive list of any lost or damaged items. As it might be hard to remember all the items you have prior to a loss, Wendy recommends downloading and completing the BrokerLink home inventory checklist.

“Given we all accumulate many things in our home over time, it might be hard to remember every single item you had before the loss, let alone trying to document them as part of the claims process. Completing an audit of your things makes this step so much easier if there is ever a loss,” advises Wendy.

Insurance claims can be complicated, but your dedicated broker offers guidance and assistance every step of the way. “We can help to ensure your business, property, car and belongings are properly covered to their full value,” adds Wendy and Stephen.

“As your broker, we will advocate on your behalf throughout the claims process to ensure things go smoothly and you are getting the best from your insurance provider.”

To learn more about the claims process, speak with a BrokerLink broker or visit our website for a step by step guide for personal insurance claims or business insurance claims.