American Church Group - Colorado

How to Report a Claim

What would you do if a windstorm damaged the roof of your church or a child tripped over an unsecured cord and injured his elbow? Do you know how to report a claim?

Notify your agent, and police, if necessary

Notify your insurance agent as soon as possible and provide a detailed description of what occurred, including information about the extent of damages. Then, take immediate steps to make reasonable, necessary repairs to protect your property from further damage.

Besides your agent, contact law enforcement in cases such as theft, burglary, vandalism, suspected arson, and other incidents that violate the law or usually require police involvement.

Property claims may require help from an adjuster

Insurers often require two repair estimates when there’s damage to your building. For damage to personal property, you’ll need to submit a complete list of damaged items. Your adjuster will verify the value of the damaged items, so provide as much information about the damaged property as possible.

For extensive losses, you may need a claim adjuster to establish the full extent of your damages and to give you guidance to settle your claim. Your cooperation will enable claims personnel to establish the extent of damages quickly and equitably.

Liability claim settlements are based on negligence

Liability losses involve injury to someone while they are on your grounds or involved in your sponsored activities. You also can be held liable for damage to property that others own and you have borrowed from them.

When an accident occurs, provide appropriate medical care to the injured person immediately, then notify your agent. Just because someone is injured on your premises or at one of your sponsored activities does not mean you are liable for the damages.

Without acknowledging responsibility, provide your insurance company’s name, address, and phone number if an injured person asks. Avoid making statements like, “We’ll take care of everything.” Instead, say, “We’ll report this injury to our insurance company, and they will be in touch with you.”