3 minute readClaims
File when the loss is meaningfully larger than your deductible, when anyone else is involved, or when injuries occurred. Skip the claim for small damage you could absorb, because claim history affects renewal pricing and eligibility for years. When in doubt, report the incident and decide with your agent.
What you need to know
The rough test
If the net payment after your deductible would not change your year, it probably is not worth a claim record.
Always report third-party and injury events
Delay hurts your defense far more than the claim hurts your rate.
Ask before you file
An agent can tell you how a given loss type is likely to be treated at renewal.
Common mistakes
- Cleaning up or repairing before documenting the damage.
- Delaying the report on anything involving injuries or another party.
- Filing small claims that cost more in renewal pricing than they pay.
- Accepting a denial without asking for the specific policy language.
- Signing contractor paperwork assigning claim benefits without reading it.
When to talk to an agent
Call before you file if you can. We will tell you how the loss is likely to be handled, what to document, and whether filing makes sense — and we stay involved once the claim is open.
Frequently asked
This article is general information, not a policy or a promise of coverage. What your policy pays depends on its specific terms, limits and exclusions. Ask us to review your actual policy before making a decision.