How do I submit a claim for an RV in Alberta?
Unfortunately theft damage and even destruction happen to RVs. Whether it’s a result of a storm an accident or another individual this is a stressful time. But that’s why you have insurance to help you recover what was lost. But how do you submit a claim for an RV in Alberta and what is the process to getting your RV fixed or replaced? It’s much easier if you know what to do and understand what should happen.
How to Submit a Claim for an RV in Alberta
1. Protect Yourself and Get Help
Firstly and most importantly ensure that you and anyone around you is safe. Call 9-1-1 if it is an emergency situation or if you were the victim of a crime. You’ll also want the police on scene in the event of a vehicle accident as you’ll need to fill out an incident report.
2. Assess the Damage to Your RV
The best thing to do is to take pictures and video of the damage. You’ll also want to make an inventory list of everything that is missing damaged or destroyed.
3. Report and Submit Your Claim
Call your insurance company to submit your claim. Your broker can help you with this process or even submit it on your behalf if you prefer. Your insurance company will ask for the following:
- Your contact information
- Policy number
- Date and time of the incident
- Details of the loss including the location, what happened, who was involved, the weather, time of day and any other detail that is relevant to the claim
- Name and contact information of any others involved (include driver’s license number and license plate number of vehicles involved)
- Name and contact information of any witnesses
Next, you will be asked to fill out a proof of loss form. This form is different for each insurance company but basically asks for a list of what property was damaged destroyed or stolen its current replacement value and evidence it was involved in the event. This is where documentation comes in handy.
4. Document
Be sure to well document the claim. Taking photos and videos of the damaged property helps but also be sure to save any other related documentation – receipts, correspondence, inventory lists and anything that is relevant to the RV or items which are missing damaged or destroyed including purchase receipts and previous photos.
5. Meet with the Adjuster
After you’ve submitted the claim an adjuster will be in touch. An adjuster evaluates the extent of the damage and determines the amount the insurance company will payout to you. This will of course depend on your insurance coverage.
The adjuster will need time to evaluate your claim and determine the amount you should be paid. If your claim is the result of a large storm or natural disaster keep in mind that there will be many other claims being submitted at the same time as yours which can create a backlog and delay.
6. Settle the Claim
After your adjuster has evaluated the damage they will determine the amount the insurance company will payout to you. Feel free to negotiate this number however keep in mind that you will need proof and documentation for any increases. For example, if you had just put brand new tires on your trailer and don’t think the price reflects that communicate this to your adjuster and submit a receipt of the work done.
Once you’ve settled on the amount you will be sent a cheque or repair work will begin.
7. Close the Claim
The claim will close on the receipt and cashing of the cheque or the completion of the repair work.
The claims process takes time – at least a few weeks. While this can be stressful having proper documentation can help keep things moving. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your broker if you have any questions or difficulties and your adjuster should also be available for updates.
Having a separate RV policy is beneficial when it comes to making a claim as you’ll be dealing with an adjuster that is familiar with RVs. These policies also often offer better coverage than if your RV is added on to your vehicle or home insurance policy.