Wells Insurance Blog

How to File a Home or Auto Insurance Claim: A Stress-Free Guide

Written by Wells Insurance | Aug 7, 2025 1:51:34 PM

A simple step-by-step playbook to save time, reduce stress, and protect what matters most.

So, something went wrong. A tree fell on your roof. Someone rear-ended you at a stoplight. Whatever happened, you’re safe—but now you’ve got to deal with your insurance claim.

Let’s be honest, no one looks forward to this part. But filing a claim doesn’t have to be a chaotic mess of paperwork, phone calls, and stress. We've walked plenty of clients through it, and if you follow a few key steps, you’ll get through this just fine—with your sanity (and your savings) intact.

Step 1: Take a Breath, Then Take Photos

Before you do anything else, document the damage. Use your phone to snap clear photos from multiple angles. For car accidents, get shots of both vehicles, the scene, any debris, and—if possible—license plates. For home damage, show wide views and close-ups of the issue.

And if the situation is still dangerous (think: flooding, fire, exposed wires)? Prioritize safety first. Call emergency services if needed, then call your insurer once you’re in a safe spot.

Step 2: Don’t Wait—Let Us Know

File your claim ASAP. The sooner we know what’s going on, the sooner we can help. You can usually do this online, over the phone, or through your insurance app. At Wells, we’ll walk you through what to expect and what documents you might need—no long hold times or confusing language.

If you're a client of ours, give your agent a quick call or head to our contact page. We’re here to make this easier for you.

Step 3: Gather the Right Info (It’s Not as Bad as It Sounds)

Here’s what you’ll probably need:

  • Policy number
  • Date/time of the incident
  • Description of what happened
  • Any police report (especially for car accidents or theft)
  • Those handy photos you took

Keep all this in one email thread or folder so you’re not digging around later.

Step 4: Meet Your Adjuster

Once the claim’s in, an insurance adjuster will reach out. Their job? Evaluate the damage, ask a few questions, and help determine how much the insurance company will pay.

You don’t have to be a pro—just be honest, provide the info they request, and ask questions if anything’s unclear. (Seriously, ask. That’s what they’re there for.)

Step 5: Get Paid, Get Fixed

After the adjuster wraps up their part, you’ll get a settlement offer. This is the money to repair or replace whatever was damaged. Depending on your policy, it may go directly to you, or to a contractor or body shop.

If something feels off about the amount? Talk to your agent. We’ve got your back and can help make sure things are fair.

Bonus Tips from Someone Who’s Seen It All:

  • Don’t make repairs before filing - Protect what you can to prevent further damage (like boarding up a broken window), and potentially save broken or damaged items (but keep them out of the way in a safe space).

  • Save receipts for temporary fixes or emergency costs—those might be reimbursable.

  • Be patient—but persistent. Claims can take time, but don’t be afraid to follow up if you’re not hearing back.

👉 Need help filing a claim or just want someone to walk you through it?

Don’t go it alone. Contact your Wells Insurance agent and let us help you handle the hard stuff—so you can get back to life, faster. We’re real people who actually care. No bots, no runaround—just solid support when you need it.

Click here to reach out now and let us take the stress off your shoulders.