5 Mistakes That Can Void Your Insurance Claim

February 8, 2026

Most insurance claims get paid without drama. But certain mistakes—some easy to make—can reduce your payout or get your claim denied entirely. Here are the big five.

1. Waiting Too Long to Report the Damage

Most policies require you to report losses "promptly" or "as soon as reasonably possible." Waiting weeks (or months) to file gives the carrier ammunition to question whether the damage is really from the event you're claiming.

What to do: Call your carrier the same day or next business day after discovering damage. You don't need all the details yet—just get the claim opened and get a claim number.

2. Failing to Mitigate Further Damage

Your policy has a clause requiring you to protect the property from additional damage. If a pipe bursts and you don't call a plumber or tarp a roof leak, the carrier can deny coverage for the worsened damage.

What to do: Make reasonable emergency repairs. Keep every receipt. Document the damage before and after temporary fixes.

3. Throwing Away Damaged Items Too Early

It's natural to want to clean up, but discarding damaged materials before the adjuster inspects is one of the most common reasons claims get reduced.

What to do: Photo and video everything before moving or disposing of anything. Keep damaged items in a garage, shed, or designated area until the adjuster has seen them.

4. Accepting the First Settlement Offer Without Review

The carrier's initial estimate is rarely the final word. Adjusters miss things—especially hidden damage behind walls, under floors, or in attics. Once you accept a settlement and sign a release, reopening the claim is difficult or impossible.

What to do: Review the estimate line by line. Compare it to your own contractor's estimate. If there's a significant gap, you have the right to dispute it.

5. Not Reading Your Policy

This sounds obvious, but many homeowners have never read their actual policy. They assume everything is covered, then get surprised by exclusions, sub-limits, or deductible amounts.

What to do: Read your Declarations Page (the summary of coverage, limits, and deductibles). If you don't have a copy, request one from your carrier or agent.

Already Made One of These Mistakes?

It might not be too late. A public adjuster can review your claim, identify what was missed, and help reopen or supplement it in many cases.