Insurance is supposed to be a safety net — something you hope you’ll never need, but rely on when life takes an unexpected turn. Whether it’s a car accident, a medical emergency, a home disaster, or a business interruption, insurance exists to soften the financial blow.
Yet, according to claims adjusters — the professionals who evaluate and process insurance claims — many policyholders unknowingly sabotage their own claims long before an accident even happens.
Every day, adjusters encounter the same preventable mistakes. These errors can lead to delayed payouts, reduced settlements, or outright claim denials. In many cases, people don’t realize what went wrong until it’s too late.
Understanding these common pitfalls can make the difference between a smooth claims experience and a costly nightmare. Here are the five most common insurance mistakes claims adjusters see every day — and how you can avoid them.
1. Not Understanding What Your Policy Actually Covers
One of the most frequent — and frustrating — mistakes adjusters encounter is policyholders who simply don’t understand their coverage.
Many people assume insurance policies are all-inclusive. They believe that if something bad happens, their insurer will automatically cover it. Unfortunately, insurance doesn’t work that way.
What Adjusters See
Claims adjusters regularly deal with policyholders who are shocked to learn:
- Flood damage isn’t covered under standard home insurance
- Wear and tear isn’t the same as accidental damage
- Certain medical procedures require pre-approval
- Personal belongings may have coverage limits
- Rental car damage might not be included
From an adjuster’s perspective, these situations are uncomfortable. The policyholder feels betrayed, while the adjuster is bound by contract terms that were clearly outlined — but rarely read.
Why This Happens
Insurance policies are long, technical, and full of legal language. Many people skim them or rely on assumptions instead of clarity.
How to Avoid It
- Read your policy at least once, even if it’s boring
- Pay attention to exclusions and limits
- Ask your agent specific “what if” questions
- Review coverage annually, especially after major life changes
A few minutes of review can prevent months of frustration later.
2. Waiting Too Long to File a Claim
Timing is critical in insurance, and delays are one of the biggest red flags claims adjusters notice.
Many policyholders wait days, weeks, or even months before filing a claim — sometimes hoping the issue will resolve itself, other times simply procrastinating.
What Adjusters See
Delayed claims often come with:
- Missing or unclear evidence
- Changed or repaired damage
- Conflicting timelines
- Increased suspicion of fraud (even when unintentional)
From an adjuster’s perspective, the longer the delay, the harder it is to verify what actually happened.
Why This Happens
- Not realizing damage qualifies for a claim
- Fear that premiums will increase
- Assuming small damage isn’t worth reporting
- Being overwhelmed after an accident
How to Avoid It
- Report incidents as soon as possible, even if you’re unsure
- Ask your insurer about timelines and deadlines
- Document damage immediately with photos and notes
- Let the insurer decide whether it’s claim-worthy
Early reporting protects you and speeds up the process.
3. Providing Incomplete or Inaccurate Information
Claims adjusters rely on facts. When information is missing, vague, or inconsistent, it slows everything down — and sometimes stops a claim entirely.
Many policyholders don’t realize that even small inaccuracies can raise serious concerns.
What Adjusters See
- Inconsistent statements between phone calls and written forms
- Missing documentation (receipts, reports, photos)
- Estimates that don’t match actual damage
- Incorrect dates or descriptions of events
Adjusters are trained to identify discrepancies. When they do, they must investigate further — even if the mistake was innocent.
Why This Happens
- Stress after an accident
- Rushing through claim forms
- Guessing instead of verifying
- Assuming details don’t matter
How to Avoid It
- Take your time when filing a claim
- Stick to facts — don’t speculate
- Keep copies of everything you submit
- Ask for clarification if you’re unsure
Accuracy builds trust and keeps your claim moving.
4. Making Repairs or Changes Before the Adjuster Inspects
After an accident or loss, many people want to fix the problem immediately — especially if it affects safety or daily living. While this instinct is understandable, it can create major issues for your claim.
What Adjusters See
- Damaged items have been discarded
- Repairs were made without documentation
- Original damage can’t be verified
- Costs are disputed due to lack of evidence
Without seeing the original condition, adjusters must rely on secondary proof, which weakens your claim.
Why This Happens
- Urgency to restore normal life
- Fear of further damage
- Misunderstanding claim procedures
- Contractor pressure to act quickly
How to Avoid It
- Document damage thoroughly before repairs
- Take clear photos and videos from multiple angles
- Save damaged items when possible
- Contact your insurer before major repairs
- Only make emergency repairs if safety is at risk
Preserving evidence is one of the most important steps in any claim.
5. Assuming the Insurance Company Will “Handle Everything”
Many policyholders believe that once a claim is filed, their role is finished. In reality, successful claims require active participation.
Claims adjusters often see cases delayed or underpaid simply because the policyholder disengaged.
What Adjusters See
- Missed calls and emails
- Unreturned requests for documents
- Delayed approvals
- Lack of follow-up on estimates or reports
From an adjuster’s standpoint, unanswered requests can stall a claim indefinitely.
Why This Happens
- Busy schedules
- Emotional exhaustion after a loss
- Belief that insurers will chase information
- Lack of understanding of the process
How to Avoid It
- Stay responsive and organized
- Keep a claim folder (digital or physical)
- Follow up regularly
- Ask questions when timelines seem unclear
Insurance is a partnership. Staying involved helps ensure a fair outcome.
Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Impact
Insurance mistakes are rarely intentional. Most happen because people don’t deal with insurance until something goes wrong — and by then, emotions are high and decisions are rushed.
The good news is that every mistake on this list is preventable.
By taking a proactive approach to your insurance policies and understanding how claims actually work, you can dramatically improve your chances of a smooth, successful claim when it matters most.
Insurance shouldn’t feel like a gamble. With the right knowledge, it becomes what it was always meant to be: a reliable safety net when life throws the unexpected your way.
