What to Do After Filing an Insurance Claim: The Ultimate Post-Claim Checklist

Congratulations, your insurance claim is officially closed, and you've made it through the gauntlet of inspections, paperwork, adjuster meetings, and negotiations. While that’s certainly cause for celebration, your work isn’t quite finished. What you do after your claim is resolved can significantly affect your financial protection, your ability to file future claims, and even your insurance rates. This comprehensive post-claim checklist ensures you're fully protected and positioned for any future loss.

1. Organize All Claim Documents

Create a dedicated folder (both digital and physical) for everything related to your claim. This should include:

• The carrier’s coverage determination letter

• Initial and revised estimates

• All issued checks and payment letters

• Any Proof of Loss forms submitted

• Emails and correspondence with the insurer, contractor, and adjuster

• Photos or videos documenting damage and completed repairs

Why it matters: If another loss occurs in the future, the insurance company may want to verify that repairs from the previous loss were completed. Being able to quickly access this paperwork avoids disputes, protects your policy eligibility, and speeds up new claims.

2. Save Receipts, Invoices, and Repair Documentation

Whether the work is complete or ongoing, be sure to retain:

• Contractor and vendor invoices

• Receipts for materials or equipment

• Final paid invoices and proof of payment

• Contracts, warranties, and inspection reports

• Before-and-after photos

This documentation is critical for multiple reasons:

• It validates completed work to avoid future coverage issues.

• It may be required for tax purposes or depreciation recovery.

• It supports future supplemental claims if new damage or underpaid work is discovered.

3. Request Recoverable Depreciation (If Applicable)

Many Replacement Cost Value (RCV) insurance policies pay claims in two parts:

1. Actual Cash Value (ACV) upfront (depreciated value)

2. Recoverable depreciation once the repairs are completed

To recover withheld depreciation, most policies require:

• Final invoices

• Paid receipts

• Clear photos showing completed work

Time-sensitive alert: Some policies require that you request depreciation reimbursement within 180 days of the loss or payment, and this deadline can vary by state or carrier. Miss it, and you lose that money forever. If you're unsure about your deadline or eligibility, contact your public adjuster immediately.

4. Consider Whether a Supplemental Claim Is Needed

Even after your claim is closed, you may discover new or hidden damages. A supplemental claim is often warranted when:

• Repair costs exceed original insurance estimates

• New damage is discovered during repairs (e.g., hidden mold, structural rot, electrical issues)

• Items were left off the original scope or pricing was outdated

But here's the catch: not all closed claims are created equal.

If you signed a release of liability, particularly in cases involving a settlement or lawsuit, you are likely barred from filing a supplemental claim. A release is a formal agreement that closes the claim for good, no matter what new issues arise.

However, many insurers “close” claims as a matter of internal policy once a payment is issued, without requiring you to sign a release. In those cases, and if you're still within the allowable supplemental window (often 1-2 years depending on your policy), a supplement can still be filed.

Bottom line: If you find missed damages, contact your public adjuster right away. They'll review the policy and correspondence to determine whether a supplement can be filed.

5. Review Your Insurance Policy With Expert Input

Now that you’ve lived through a claim, you’re probably far more aware of what your policy covered, and what it didn’t. This is the perfect time to sit down and:

• Evaluate coverage limits and deductibles

• Look for missing endorsements (e.g., ordinance or law coverage, screened enclosures)

• Identify exclusions that cost you during the claim

• Ask yourself what endorsements would have helped

Start by talking to your insurance agent, who can review your policy and suggest coverage improvements. But don’t stop there. It’s smart to also bring your public adjuster into the conversation.

Most insurance agents only work the front end, binding policies and quoting premiums. They often lack firsthand experience with how a policy holds up once a claim is actually filed. A public adjuster, on the other hand, lives in the back end of claims and can spot weaknesses in coverage that may lead to underpayment or denial. Let them review your options before you commit to a new policy.

6. Shop for Updated Insurance Rates

Once the repairs are complete, you may qualify for better rates due to:

• A new roof

• Updated plumbing or electrical systems

• Improved structural features

Be proactive. Reach out to multiple carriers and ask about:

• Discounts for recent upgrades

• Loyalty rewards or bundling

• Better terms on hurricane or water deductibles

A well-timed policy review can result in lower premiums or broader coverage, especially if your claim exposed serious gaps.

7. Discuss Tax Implications With an Accountant

Depending on your situation and the nature of your loss, there may be tax consequences. An accountant can advise whether you should:

• Track and report certain expenses

• Treat repairs or losses as deductible events

• Prepare for changes in your property taxes after major improvements

If your accountant requests documentation, you’ll be glad you followed Step 1 and kept everything organized. And if you’re missing documents, your public adjuster may still have copies available.

Final Thoughts: Your Post-Claim Advantage

Handling these post-claim steps thoughtfully protects your financial health and prepares you for the next time disaster strikes. Here's what to remember:

• Recover depreciation before it’s too late

• Don’t let hidden damage go unclaimed

• Upgrade your policy now that you know what matters

• Let your adjuster help shape your future coverage

• Leverage your repairs into a better premium

• Organize everything in one place to stay ready

If you need help with any of the steps above, or just want a second opinion on a new policy, we’re happy to help.

Next Steps

1. Reach out to your public adjuster if you suspect you may have missed damages or qualify for a supplement.

2. Request a policy review with both your agent and a public adjuster before your next renewal.

3. Set reminders to submit any depreciation paperwork before your policy deadline.

4. Keep your documents organized for at least 5 years following a claim.

5. Share this checklist with friends or neighbors — they’ll thank you when disaster strikes.