Claim Clean-Up: What to Do After Filing (But Before It’s Settled)

Picture this: you’ve filed a claim. Maybe it was a fender bender in the grocery store parking lot, or maybe a rogue tree limb damaged your roof after a storm. Either way, the paperwork is in and now you’re in the waiting phase.

So what happens next? Do you need to do anything while the claim is under review and could the wrong move cause delays?

Here’s what to expect, how to stay proactive and why the post-claim period still matters.

Step One: Use the Claims Portal

The fastest way for Rockingham Insurance customers can check claim status is through the Rockingham Insurance Customer Portal. Once your claim is filed, you’ll get a reference number that allows you to:

• Upload documentation (like photos or receipts)
• View claim updates
• Access contact information for your assigned adjuster

If you haven’t heard anything within 48 business hours after reporting the claim, feel free to call and check in. The portal makes it easy to stay connected with your adjuster and other professionals involved in resolving your claim, all without juggling multiple phone calls.

‍Step Two: Document to Prevent Further Damage

If your home was impacted, take clear photos and videos of the damage right away. From there, here are some other steps you can take to prevent it from getting worse, like:

• Placing a tarp over exposed areas to avoid water damage
• Removing debris that may pose additional risk
• Storing damaged items until they can be inspected

An adjuster may need to visit your property, so keeping things as intact and well-documented as possible will help.

If your vehicle was involved in an accident, make sure you’ve collected:

• Photos or video of the damage
• Police reports or medical documentation, if applicable
• Contact and insurance information for other parties

This documentation will not only support your claim but also help your adjuster understand the full scope of what happened.

Step Three: Gather Repair  Estimates Early

Once your claim is filed, don’t wait for it to be settled before contacting repair professionals.

• For Home claims: Reach out to one or more reputable contractors to inspect the damage and provide estimates. This helps support your claim and puts you on their schedule sooner, especially during busy times.
• For Auto claims: If your car is drivable, you can take it to a repair shop of your choice for an estimate.

In both cases, your deductible will be paid directly to the contractor or body shop completing the work, not to your insurance company.

Keep in mind - you don’t have to make any decisions right away, but starting the estimate process early helps everything move more smoothly once coverage is confirmed.

Why It All Matters

Staying organized and proactive after filing a claim can help prevent delays and lead to a smoother resolution. Small steps like checking the portal, reaching out to contractors, and keeping clear records make a big difference.

Questions? We’re Here to Help

Every claim is different, and if you ever feel uncertain about what to do next, your trusted Rockingham Insurance agent is just a phone call away. We’ll guide you through the process and help you feel confident moving forward, so you can get back to normal without the stress.

‍