Filing a renter insurance claim

Before you file a claim

Your claims history is a factor insurance companies consider when deciding to renew your policy, offer to insure you or adjust what you pay for coverage. Before you file a claim, make sure it’s worthwhile. If the cost of your loss is close to your deductible, for example, you might consider just paying to replace it rather than filing a claim. 

Your agent is a good resource if you need help figuring out your options or have questions. We’re also here to help you understand your rights and answer questions about your policy and coverage.

How to file a claim

If damage or an accident occurs in your rental home, don’t panic. Follow these simple steps to help you stay safe, protect your property, and make the insurance process easier: 

1. Safety first: Make sure there’s no immediate danger, such as structural damage, electrical hazards, or contamination. If your living space is unsafe, move to a safe location right away. 
2. Contact authorities: If your loss is due to vandalism, burglary, fire, or a similar incident, report the incident to the police or fire department. Keep a copy of the report and file one with your claim. 
3. Contact your insurer: Reach out to your insurance agent or claims representative as soon as it’s safe to do so. Many companies allow you to start a claim on their websites outside of normal business hours.  
4. Don’t forget to contact your flood insurer too: If your claim is related to flooding from a nearby waterway (not a leak or water intrusion) and you have a policy — whether through a private company or the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) — notify your flood insurer right away too. 
5. Document everything: Take clear photos and videos of all damaged items and affected areas. Make a detailed inventory that includes makes and models, purchase dates, values, receipts, and appraisals if you have them. Try to capture wide shots and timestamps if possible. 
6. Keep damaged items if they’re safe: Don’t throw your damaged things away yet. Your insurance company may want to inspect them before you get rid of them. If your property is contaminated and unsafe to handle, ask your insurance company what to do.
7. Complete the claims form: Your insurer will send you a claims form. If they don’t, ask for one. Fill it out completely and attach your inventory, photos, and receipts.
8. Track all communication: Save emails, adjuster reports, estimates, and claim reference numbers. Staying organized makes the process smoother for you and your insurer. 
9. Know your coverage limits: Review your policy to make sure you understand your deductible and maximum coverage. If repair or replacement costs are higher than your limits, you only get paid up to your policy’s maximum. 

Your rights when you file a claim

If you’re filing a renter insurance claim in Washington, it’s good to know the consumer protections you have as a policyholder. 

• Insurers must acknowledge your claim, provide forms, and respond to you within 10 business days. See WAC 284-30-360.
• Your insurer must tell you if your claim is accepted or denied within 15 business days. If it needs more time, it must notify you within 15 business days and provide updates every 30 days. See WAC 284-30-380.
• You have the right to disagree with an insurance company’s valuation of your loss and ask for an appraisal. See WAC 284-30-330.
• If you prefer not to work with the adjuster your insurance company sends, you can hire a public adjuster for your claim. Public adjusters work on your behalf to assess the value of your loss and negotiate your claim. If you hire your own adjuster, verify they’re licensed in Washington and shop around for a rate that fits your budget. See WAC 284-30-330.
• If your insurer unreasonably denies your claim, you may be able to recover up to three times the amount of actual damage under the Insurance Fair Conduct Act (IFCA). See RCW 48.30.015.

If you think you’ve been unfairly discriminated against or your insurer has violated your rights, we encourage you to learn more about the complaints process and file a complaint with us.  

What to expect after you file a claim

After you file a claim, expect a response from your insurance company within 10 business days. Your insurer should ask for a detailed “proof of loss” inventory of your damaged property.

The insurance company may send an adjuster to the home you’re renting to inspect damage, but it’s not required to. Some companies leverage technology, such as mobile apps downloaded to your phone, to do a virtual inspection.

As the claim moves through the process, good communication with your insurer is important. If it asks for more information, respond to the company as soon as possible. Many insurance company websites and apps allow you to keep your communication preferences updated. It’s a good idea to check these when you initiate your claim, so emails, calls, and physical mail get to the right place.