Whether its loss or damage of property from a fire, flood or theft, filing a claim is a stressful time for a homeowner. There are several common insurance mistakes that homeowners make that can impact a claim. This can include not securing coverage in time, choosing a deductible they cannot afford, and not having the right coverages in place. Here are some common mistakes and tips to fix them.

Document and periodically update a detailed inventory of their possessions. This should include furniture, appliances, kitchenware, jewelry and other valuables. Now that hurricane season is officially over, take advantage of the “calm” before the next storm to itemize your property.

This is probably the number one error by homeowners insurance policyholders. Submit “before and after” photos and/or video (a smartphone works) of the damage incurred to show proof of the extent of the loss.

Cleaning up damages too soon can interfere with the claims process. Some home damage needs to be taken care of immediately for health and safety reasons, for example, mold from water damage, or structural damage that may cause a home to collapse. But homeowners sometimes discard damaged property too quickly or throw away repair receipts needed to make an insurance claim to be properly reimbursed.

Reporting a claim as soon as possible can help get repairs done sooner. Sometimes the longer a home remains damaged, the extent of the damages may become even greater. It’s best to file an insurance claim as soon as possible so damages can be taken care of quickly.

Sometimes homeowners do not clearly explain to their insurance adjustor the damage sustained to their property, which could slow down the claims process.

One way homeowners can lower the risk of property damage and major repairs is consistent preventative maintenance. Proper upkeep prevents problems such as leaky pipes or roofs, which may not be covered as part of your home insurance policy.

It’s not just a matter of having enough insurance, but the correct coverage. One common mistake is flood insurance. If a homeowner lives near a stream or in a flood zone, they should consider flood insurance to cover potential property damage. Talk to your agent about this option to protect your investments.

Before damage is sustained, read their policies to understand coverage and exclusions. Talk to your agent about policy exclusions and understand insurance jargons and terms.

Taking the time to discuss these matters with your clients beforehand will go a long way in avoiding any emotional and financial hardship after an incident occurs.