The first hours are decisive
After an incident, every hour counts. Most home insurance policies have strict reporting deadlines: 5 working days for theft or vandalism, 5 days for water damage or fire. After these deadlines, your insurer can legally refuse to cover the claim or reduce the payout. Start the declaration process as soon as you discover the incident, even if you don't yet have all the details.
What to do before touching anything
Before cleaning up, moving things or making repairs, photograph and video all the damage. These photos are your key evidence during the expert's assessment. For theft, don't touch anything before the police arrive. For water damage, turn off the water supply if you can do so safely, but document the situation before intervening.
What your claim must contain
Your claim should be as precise as possible: exact date and time of the incident (or discovery), a detailed description of what happened, an exhaustive list of damaged or stolen items with estimated values, attached photos, and in the case of theft, the police report receipt. The more precise your claim from the outset, the fewer disputes you'll have with the insurer's expert.
Water damage: the joint report
If the damage came from a neighbouring property, complete a joint water damage report (constat amiable de dégât des eaux) with your neighbour — a form available from your insurer. This document signed by both parties significantly speeds up the process. Also notify your building management company if you're in a co-owned building.
Challenging the expert's assessment
The expert appointed by your insurer works for the insurer — their interests aren't necessarily aligned with yours. If their assessment seems too low, you have the right to appoint your own insurance expert. If disagreement persists, a contradictory expert assessment can be requested. Never sign a settlement document if you're not satisfied with the proposed amount.