Denied or Delayed? Common Home Insurance Claim Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
When disaster strikes—whether it’s a burst pipe, flood, fire, or sewer backup—your first instinct is to get your home (and your life) back to normal. That’s what home insurance is for, right?
Unfortunately, many homeowners find out the hard way that filing a claim isn’t always smooth sailing. Claims can get delayed, reduced, or even denied altogether, often due to small, avoidable missteps.
The good news? A little preparation and awareness go a long way in helping you get the support you need, when you need it.
At Ultrawest Restoration, we’ve seen our fair share of insurance claim headaches over the years.
Here’s a look at the most common mistakes homeowners make during the home insurance claims process and how to avoid them.
❌ Mistake #1: Waiting Too Long to File
The problem: Delays in reporting damage can raise red flags with your insurance company, making them question the severity or cause of the issue.
What to do instead: Contact your insurance provider as soon as it’s safe to do so. Prompt reporting not only helps your claim—it speeds up the entire cleanup and restoration process. Request to have Ultrawest Restoration assigned as your restoration contractor and we can coordinate with the insurance company on your behalf throughout the entire restoration process.
❌ Mistake #2: Tossing Damaged Items Too Early
The problem: It’s tempting to start clearing out ruined belongings, especially if they’re soggy or smelly. But without documentation, you could lose out on compensation.
What to do instead: Take photos of everything before discarding anything. If you can, hang onto damaged items until your insurance adjuster has seen them.
❌ Mistake #3: Skipping the “Mitigation” Phase
The problem: Insurance policies typically require you to prevent further damage. That means if you wait days to call a restoration company or don’t stop a leak right away, your insurer might not cover the full extent of the damage.
What to do instead: Call a professional restoration company (like Ultrawest!) right away to begin mitigation. We’ll stabilize the situation, document everything thoroughly, and guide you through the next steps.
❌ Mistake #4: Not Understanding What’s Covered
The problem: Not all policies are created equal. Many homeowners assume they’re covered for things like flood damage or sewer backup—only to discover those require separate endorsements.
What to do instead: Review your policy regularly and ask your broker to clarify any grey areas. It’s better to be prepared now than surprised later.
❌ Mistake #5: Going the DIY Route Without Proof
The problem: Rolling up your sleeves and handling cleanup on your own might feel proactive, but without professional documentation, your claim could be weakened.
What to do instead: Even if you clean up small messes, be sure to document the process. When in doubt, bring in a certified restoration professional for an expert assessment.
❌ Mistake #6: Poor Communication
The problem: Home Insurance claims can involve lots of back-and-forth. Missing a call, failing to provide requested info, or not asking for updates can slow things down.
What to do instead: Stay organized. Keep a record of every conversation, email, and document you send. Follow up regularly and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.
Bonus Tip: Call Ultrawest Restoration First
If your emergency involves water damage, fire damage, or another home disaster, calling us first can help protect your claim. We know exactly what adjusters are looking for and how to document the damage thoroughly from the start—saving you time, stress, and potential denial down the line.
Protect Your Claim—And Your Peace of Mind
No one wants to deal with the aftermath of a home disaster—but when you do, your home insurance claims shouldn’t be a second disaster. By knowing the common pitfalls and acting fast, you can keep your claim on track and your home on the road to recovery.
And if you’re in Quesnel, Prince George, Williams Lake, or 100 Mile House, Ultrawest Restoration is here to help—every step of the way!
