Insurance claim folder checklist

Build this folder before a disaster. After one, it is the difference between a paid claim and a stalled one.

By HomeRiskMap Editors, Editorial team · Reviewed October 8, 2026 · How we source this

Before anything happens

Declarations page for homeowners, flood, earthquake and wind (whatever you carry)
Agent name, claim phone number and policy numbers on one card
A room-by-room photo/video inventory, including serial numbers
Receipts for major appliances, roofs and mitigation (shutters, roof, seismic retrofit)

Photograph damage before you throw anything away
Make only emergency repairs (tarp the roof, stop further damage) and keep receipts
Call the claim in quickly and write down the claim number
Do not sign an assignment of benefits or a blank contractor contract in the driveway

Informational only — not a substitute for local emergency orders or your insurance policy. Last updated October 8, 2026.

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