What to expect if filing a homeowner's claim

Explain, photograph the damage To file a claim, you'll need to explain what sort of damage your house sustained. If it is safe to do so, walk around and through the house and make a list of all visible signs of damage, and any affected contents. Pictures are helpful for illustrating the extent of the damage, especially if they can be compared with 'before' photos. Don't throw away damaged items until an insurance adjuster sees them, in order to help ensure full coverage. Items that are unsafe can be photographed and discarded if necessary.
Stan Grossfeld / Globe Staff

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By Eileen AJ Connelly, The Associated Press

Explain, photograph the damage

To file a claim, you'll need to explain what sort of damage your house sustained. If it is safe to do so, walk around and through the house and make a list of all visible signs of damage, and any affected contents.

Pictures are helpful for illustrating the extent of the damage, especially if they can be compared with "before" photos. Don't throw away damaged items until an insurance adjuster sees them, in order to help ensure full coverage. Items that are unsafe can be photographed and discarded if necessary.