How to Get Paid Faster on Your Homeowners Insurance Claim in New Jersey
How to Get Paid Faster on Your Homeowners Insurance Claim in New Jersey
When disaster strikes, homeowners are left not only dealing with the emotional and physical toll — but also the financial stress of waiting for an insurance check. In New Jersey, many policyholders find themselves stuck in limbo, wondering why it’s taking weeks (or months) to get paid. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
Here’s how to speed up the claims process and reduce the runaround.
1. Start with Immediate Documentation
The clock starts ticking the moment the damage occurs — not when the adjuster finally shows up.
✅ Take photos and videos of all damage right away
✅ Save receipts for any emergency repairs or temporary housing
✅ Keep damaged materials if possible (insurers may request to inspect them)
Pro Tip: Organize everything by room. It’s faster to process when it’s structured logically.
2. Don’t Rely Solely on the Insurance Adjuster’s Report
Most policyholders assume the adjuster’s estimate is the final word — but in reality, it’s just the starting point.
✅ Get a second opinion: Hire a licensed public adjuster or contractor to write an independent scope
✅ Compare estimates: Look for missing line items, lowball pricing, or skipped repairs
At Watermark Claims, we often uncover 20–40% more in overlooked damages compared to carrier adjusters.
3. Submit a Clear, Complete Proof of Loss
This is the document that tells the insurer what you’re claiming and how much you’re owed. Many claims stall here because it’s vague or incomplete.
✅ Break down costs by category: structure, personal property, ALE, etc.
✅ Include supporting estimates and photos
✅ Reference policy limits and endorsements directly
Pro Tip: A solid Proof of Loss can trigger faster claim reviews under New Jersey law.
4. Know Your Policy Timelines
New Jersey requires insurers to respond within specific timeframes, but most policyholders aren’t aware of the deadlines:
📅 10 business days to acknowledge the claim
📅 30 calendar days to pay or deny after receiving proof of loss (under most policies)
If they miss these deadlines without valid cause, you can push back — but only if you know what to cite.
5. Communicate Like a Pro (And Keep a Record)
Every phone call, every email, every estimate — document it.
✅ Log all communication dates
✅ Send important info in writing (email or certified mail)
✅ Avoid phone-only updates that leave no paper trail
The more organized you are, the harder it is for the carrier to stall.
6. Call in Reinforcements Early
The biggest delay? Fighting the insurer after they lowball or deny. It’s often faster to bring in a public adjuster before the offer is made.
At Watermark Claims, we:
✔️ Create line-by-line estimates
✔️ Handle all back-and-forth with the insurance company
✔️ Push claims forward with legal timelines in mind
Our average client sees faster payouts and higher settlements — with far less stress.
Conclusion: Delay Is a Tactic — Not a Given
Insurance companies have one goal: limit payouts. Delay is a built-in strategy. But you’re not powerless.
Documentation. Deadlines. Diligence. That’s how you take control of the process — or you can have someone do it for you.
Serving Homeowners & Business Owners In New Jersey Statewide
Whether you’re dealing with water, fire, storm, or other property damage, we’ll help you get the full settlement you’re entitled to — not just what the insurer is willing to offer.
Think you were underpaid? Let’s find out.
Contact us today for a free policy and settlement review.