Essential Tips for Filing Claims with Mercury Insurance

Filing an insurance claim can feel overwhelming—but with the right preparation, you can move through Mercury’s process faster and with fewer surprises. This guide distills best practices for both everyday losses and catastrophe events (storms, wildfires, etc.), so you know exactly what to do, when to do it, and what documents to save.

Understanding the Claims Process with Mercury

1) Put safety first & mitigate damage. If there’s an emergency, call local services. Take reasonable steps to prevent further damage (tarp a roof, shut off water/gas). Save all receipts—they’re often reimbursable.

2) Document everything. Shoot photos/video from multiple angles, make a room-by-room inventory, note model/serial numbers, and keep a simple timeline of events.

3) Report the claim. File via Mercury’s app, website, or by phone. Have your policy number, loss date/time, and a brief description ready.

4) Adjuster review. An adjuster may contact you and inspect the damage. Don’t discard items until they’re documented or the adjuster approves disposal (unless there’s a health hazard—then photograph thoroughly first).

5) Review the estimate & settlement. Compare the scope with your damage and your policy limits/deductibles. If something looks off, ask for clarification or a reinspection; you can obtain additional contractor estimates.

6) Repairs & living expenses. Confirm whether Additional Living Expenses (ALE) apply if your home is uninhabitable. Keep detailed receipts and follow any carrier guidelines for vendors.

After a Natural Disaster: What’s Different?

• Coverage varies by peril. Wind, hail, and fire are commonly included; flood and earthquake typically require separate policies. Check your declarations page and endorsements.
• High volume can slow timelines. Catastrophe events mean many claims at once—file early and respond quickly to adjuster requests.
• Use licensed, insured contractors. Be cautious with door-to-door offers. Avoid signing over benefits unless you fully understand the agreement.
• Temporary repairs vs. permanent work. Make only necessary temporary fixes until the adjuster documents damage, unless further delay would worsen the loss.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Under-documenting the loss. Take wide shots + close-ups, and keep receipts.
• Accepting the first estimate without review. Ask questions; provide competing estimates if needed.
• Delaying your claim. Report promptly—late reporting can complicate coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which natural disasters are covered?

It depends on your policy and endorsements. Wind/hail and fire are often included; flood and earthquake are usually excluded unless you carry separate flood/earthquake coverage. Review your declarations page.

How long will my claim take?

Simple losses may resolve in weeks. Catastrophe claims can take longer due to volume. Prompt responses and complete documentation help speed things up.

Can I toss damaged items?

Not until they’re documented or your adjuster approves. If there’s a health risk, photograph/video thoroughly before disposal.

Should I get multiple estimates?

Yes—competing estimates can clarify scope and pricing, and help address discrepancies.