How to File a Tenant Insurance Claim
After theft, fire, water damage or another insured loss, good documentation and early contact with the insurer can make the claims process easier to follow.
1. Document what happened
Photograph or video the damage when it is safe to do so. Make a list of affected belongings and keep purchase records, serial numbers or other evidence you already have. A home inventory prepared before a loss can make this step much easier.
Build a replacement-value contents inventory →2. Prevent further damage without creating new risk
Reasonable temporary steps may be needed to protect property from further loss, but permanent repairs should generally wait until the insurer or adjuster explains the process. Keep receipts for emergency cleanup or temporary work.
Contact your insurance representative as soon as practical
Insurance Bureau of Canada advises policyholders to provide complete and accurate details and to keep insurer contact information handy. IBC also recommends retaining damaged items unless they are dangerous or create a health hazard, and keeping cleanup receipts.
IBC — How to file a home insurance claim →3. Ask what documentation the adjuster needs
Date, time, cause and what happened before and after the loss.
Description, age and evidence of ownership for damaged or stolen belongings.
Emergency cleanup, temporary accommodation and other eligible extra costs.
Ask which deductible, limits, valuation terms and exclusions apply.
4. If the rental is uninhabitable, ask about Additional Living Expenses
IBC says most personal property policies, including tenant policies, provide additional living expense coverage when a home becomes unliveable after an insured loss, subject to policy terms and limits.
Read the Additional Living Expenses guide →5. Understand the deductible before deciding how to proceed
For a smaller loss, compare the estimated covered damage with the applicable deductible and review any claims-history implications before deciding whether to file. The insurer or representative can explain how the policy applies to the specific loss.
How tenant insurance deductibles work →Continue from filing to settlement or complaint
The national claims hub separates first notice, Proof of Loss, settlement review, denied claims and the internal-to-external complaint path.