When disaster strikes your home or business — whether it’s storm damage, fire, theft, or a burst pipe — your insurance policy should be your safety net. But filing an insurance claim isn’t always as simple as it sounds. In fact, one small mistake in the process can delay your payout, reduce the amount you receive, or even lead to a denied claim.
At Revolve Construction, we’ve worked with property owners across Missouri and Illinois through every phase of the restoration process. We’ve seen firsthand how avoidable errors can complicate claims — and how the right guidance can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll break down the 5 most common insurance claim mistakes we see — and share practical ways to avoid them. Whether you’re facing damage right now or simply want to be prepared for the future, this is essential reading for any property owner.
Mistake #1: Waiting Too Long to File a Claim
The Problem:
Time is not on your side when it comes to insurance claims. Delaying your claim can raise red flags with your provider or fall outside the policy’s filing window.
Why It Matters:
Most insurance companies require that you report damage “promptly” — and what counts as “prompt” varies. Waiting too long can lead to claim denials or reduced payouts.
How to Avoid It:
- Report damage as soon as it’s safe to do so.
- Document the date of the incident and the condition of the property right away.
- Don’t wait until repairs are complete — initiate the claim first.
Mistake #2: Failing to Document the Damage Properly
The Problem:
Insurance is all about evidence. If you don’t have clear, dated proof of the damage, your claim may be weakened.
Why It Matters:
Adjusters rely on photos, videos, and written records to verify the extent and cause of damage. Without proper documentation, you risk underpayment or outright denial.
How to Avoid It:
- Take clear, timestamped photos of all affected areas.
- Record videos to capture the full scope of the damage.
- Keep receipts, repair estimates, and a detailed log of all communications.
Mistake #3: Throwing Away Damaged Items Too Soon
The Problem:
Many people clean up quickly after an incident — but tossing damaged materials before the adjuster visits can remove vital evidence.
Why It Matters:
Your insurer may want to inspect the damaged items or materials. Without them, it’s harder to validate your loss.
How to Avoid It:
- Leave everything in place until the adjuster arrives, if possible.
- If you must remove something for safety reasons, photograph it thoroughly first.
- Keep any small damaged items in a labeled box for inspection.
Mistake #4: Not Reviewing Your Policy Ahead of Time
The Problem:
Many property owners don’t fully understand what their policy covers — or doesn’t cover — until it’s too late.
Why It Matters:
Assuming you’re covered can lead to unexpected out-of-pocket costs. Some policies have exclusions, coverage limits, or specific deductibles depending on the type of loss.
How to Avoid It:
- Read through your policy before you need it — not after.
- Pay attention to coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions.
- Ask your insurance agent or a claims specialist to explain anything unclear.
Mistake #5: Accepting the First Settlement Offer Without Question
The Problem:
Insurance companies often make an initial offer that may not fully cover your repair or replacement costs. Many people accept it without realizing they have options.
Why It Matters:
You could be leaving thousands of dollars on the table — or settling for subpar repairs.
How to Avoid It:
- Don’t rush to accept the first offer.
- Get independent estimates from licensed contractors.
- You have the right to negotiate or request a reassessment.
Quick Reference: Top 5 Mistakes & Fixes
Mistake | Why It’s a Problem | How to Prevent It |
Waiting too long to file | Misses claim deadline | File as soon as damage occurs |
Poor documentation | Weakens your claim | Take timestamped photos and videos |
Throwing away evidence | Removes proof of loss | Keep damaged items for inspection |
Not knowing your policy | Leads to surprise costs | Review and ask questions beforehand |
Accepting first offer | May underpay your claim | Get second opinions, negotiate |
Questions to Ask Yourself Before Filing a Claim
- Have I documented the damage thoroughly?
If not, start with photos and videos from multiple angles. - Do I understand what my policy actually covers?
Review your policy or talk with your insurance rep before filing. - Have I contacted a trusted contractor?
Getting an independent damage assessment helps during negotiations. - Am I within the policy’s time limits for filing?
Check your coverage to ensure you’re still eligible to file.
Final Thoughts
Filing an insurance claim can feel overwhelming — especially after experiencing property damage. But by avoiding these common mistakes, you can protect your rights, secure a fair settlement, and get your property back to normal faster.
At Revolve Construction, we do more than just rebuild — we guide clients through the insurance process to ensure nothing gets missed. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, water leaks, or fire recovery, our experienced team is here to help you file with confidence and get the compensation you deserve.
Need help with a claim or repair? Contact Revolve Construction today — we’re on your side from start to finish.
