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Insurance Claims Process Flowchart
A visual step-by-step guide to navigating your property damage insurance claim in Florida.
Filing an insurance claim after property damage can feel overwhelming. This flowchart breaks the process into clear, sequential steps so you know exactly what to expect : and where WrightWay supports you at every stage. Understanding decision points and timelines empowers you to avoid common mistakes that delay or reduce your settlement.
Step 1
Damage Occurs
Water, fire, mold, or storm damage strikes your property. Do not delay. Document the damage immediately with photos and video from multiple angles. Protect the property from further damage : this is a policy requirement called “duty to mitigate.” Move valuables, tarp exposed areas, and shut off water sources. Your policy requires you to take reasonable steps to prevent additional loss.
Step 2
Call WrightWay & Your Insurance
Call WrightWay at (941) 379-8669 for emergency mitigation : you do not need insurance approval to begin emergency services. Your policy’s “emergency mitigation” clause covers immediate action. Then report the claim to your insurance carrier within 24 hours. Request your claim number and adjuster contact information. WrightWay documents everything from the first hour for your claim file.
Step 3
Adjuster Visit & Inspection
Your insurance company assigns an adjuster who inspects the damage, typically within 3 to 7 days. They photograph, measure, and assess the scope of loss. WrightWay provides the adjuster with thermal imaging reports, moisture readings, photo documentation, and a detailed scope of work. Having professional documentation significantly strengthens your claim and reduces disputes.
Step 4
Insurance Estimate Issued
The carrier generates an Xactimate estimate based on the adjuster’s inspection. This estimate details line-item costs for mitigation, demolition, materials, and reconstruction. Review it carefully. Common issues: missed rooms, underestimated square footage, omitted line items (antimicrobial treatment, contents manipulation, overhead and profit). WrightWay reviews every estimate against the actual scope of work.
Decision Point
Is the Estimate Adequate?
Compare the insurance estimate against WrightWay’s detailed scope. If the estimate covers the full scope of necessary work, proceed to approval. If line items are missing, square footage is underestimated, or entire areas of damage were overlooked, a supplement is required. Over 60% of initial estimates require at least one supplement.
Adequate
Insufficient
Step 4B
Supplement Filed
WrightWay prepares a detailed supplement with additional documentation : photos of missed damage, moisture readings proving further extent, and Xactimate line items for the additional work. Supplements are submitted directly to the adjuster. Response time is typically 5 to 15 business days. Multiple supplement rounds may be necessary for complex losses.
Step 5
Claim Approved
Once the carrier approves the estimate (original or supplemented), they issue payment for covered items. Most carriers pay in two phases: an initial check covering approved mitigation and demolition minus your deductible, and a second check for reconstruction once repairs are completed. Your deductible ($1,000 to $2,500 for non-hurricane water damage) is subtracted from the first payment. The property owner is responsible for the deductible and any amounts excluded or not covered by the policy. Mortgage companies may be co-payees.
Step 6
Restoration & Final Payment
WrightWay completes reconstruction : drywall, flooring, paint, trim, cabinetry : restoring your property to pre-loss condition. Upon completion, the carrier releases the recoverable depreciation (the withheld portion of the Replacement Cost Value). WrightWay coordinates directly with your carrier for the final payment, so you are not caught in the middle.
What If Your Claim Is Denied?
If your claim is denied, you have options: request a re-inspection, file a complaint with the Florida Department of Financial Services, or consult a public adjuster or insurance attorney. WrightWay provides all documentation needed to support appeals. Denials often stem from delayed reporting, maintenance exclusions, or coverage misunderstandings : which is why calling us immediately matters. (941) 379-8669
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