Filing a renter’s insurance claim isn’t something most people do often—which means when something does go wrong, you may not know where to start. Whether it’s theft, fire, water damage, or another covered event, having the right documentation can make or break your claim.
Here’s what to gather as soon as possible:
🧾 1. A Detailed Inventory of Damaged or Stolen Items
Include:
Description of each item
Brand/model (if available)
Estimated value
Date of purchase
Bonus: If you took the time to make a home inventory before the loss, now’s the time to dig it up.
📸 2. Photos and/or Videos
Take clear images or videos of:
Damaged property
The scene of the incident
Any signs of forced entry (in the case of theft)
Visual proof adds weight to your claim.
🧠 3. A Written Account of the Incident
Write down everything you remember:
Date/time of event
What happened
How you discovered the loss
Any witnesses or neighbors involved
Do this while it’s fresh—it’ll help when speaking with the claims adjuster.
📑 4. A Police Report (if applicable)
For theft, vandalism, or other criminal activity, file a police report and get a copy. Your insurer will likely require it.
🏢 5. Contact Info for Your Landlord or Property Manager
Your insurer may want to coordinate with them, especially in the case of building-related issues (e.g., leaks, fire, electrical damage).
💼 6. Receipts or Proof of Ownership
Original receipts, credit card statements, or even warranty registrations can help prove value. If you’ve lost them, try logging into online accounts to retrieve purchase records.
Having your documentation ready speeds up the process—and boosts your chances of a full and fair payout.
Want a renter’s insurance checklist you can keep on hand? I’m happy to share one.
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