How the Insurance Claim Process Usually Works in New Hampshire

This article explains — in plain language and step‑by‑step — what typically happens after you submit an insurance claim in New Hampshire. It describes the common actions insurers take, your rights and options, and resources to use if you run into problems. This is educational information, not legal advice.

Detailed answer: Step‑by‑step of the post‑submission process

1. Claim receipt and acknowledgment.

   Once you file a claim (by phone, online, or by mail), the insurer usually records it in their system and sends an acknowledgement or claim number. Save that confirmation. If you do not receive any confirmation within a few days, follow up in writing and keep a copy.

2. Assignment to an adjuster or claims representative.

   The company assigns an adjuster (staff or independent) to handle your file. The adjuster contacts you to gather facts, explain next steps, and may schedule an inspection of property or interview involved parties.

3. Investigation and evidence gathering.

   The insurer will investigate the incident to determine what happened and whether the policy covers the loss. Typical investigations include reviewing your policy, photos, receipts, police reports (if relevant), contractor or medical reports, and statements from witnesses. Cooperate, but avoid giving unnecessary or speculative statements that could complicate coverage questions.

4. Coverage analysis and decision.

   The insurer decides whether the claim is covered under the policy. The outcome can be: full acceptance, partial acceptance (paying some items but denying others), or denial. If they deny coverage, they should tell you why. Many disputes turn on policy language (what is insured, exclusions, limits, and deductibles).

5. Estimate, repair, and payment.

   If the claim is accepted, the insurer typically presents a repair or damage estimate and explains how payment will be made — for example, a direct payment to you, a payment to you and the mortgagee, or payment to a vendor. You may get an initial partial payment for emergency or temporary repairs and a final payment when repairs finish or when you submit required documentation.

6. If you disagree with the estimate or denial.

   You can supply additional evidence (photos, receipts, contractor quotes, or expert reports) and ask the insurer to reopen or revise the evaluation. Many policies include an appraisal or dispute‑resolution clause (independent appraiser, umpire, or mediation). Document all communications in writing and keep copies.

7. Subrogation and salvage (when applicable).

   If someone else caused the loss, the insurer may pursue subrogation (seek recovery from the at‑fault party or that party’s insurer). If an item is totaled, the insurer and policy may have rules about salvage (who keeps a vehicle or property and how much salvage value is credited).

8. Complaint, appeal, or legal options.

   If informal negotiation fails, you can file a complaint with the New Hampshire Insurance Department or consider mediation, appraisal, small claims court, or hiring an attorney to evaluate claims for bad faith, breach of contract, or other remedies. The New Hampshire Insurance Department provides consumer help and a complaint process (see links below).

How New Hampshire resources can help

New Hampshire does not leave consumers without recourse. Use the state resources below to learn your rights and to submit a complaint if you believe an insurer acted unfairly.

• New Hampshire Insurance Department — Consumer Information (how to file complaints, consumer guides, and contact information).
• New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) — searchable index (search the statutes that govern insurance and consumer protections).

When to consider getting a lawyer in New Hampshire

Think about hiring an attorney if:

• The insurer denies coverage and the denial turns on complex legal issues or policy interpretation.
• The insurer delays unreasonably, pays far less than warranted, or refuses to participate in agreed dispute processes (appraisal, mediation).
• There is a likely claim for breach of contract or bad faith and the potential recovery exceeds the cost of legal help.
• Liability is disputed and serious injuries, large property loss, or complex subrogation issues are involved.

Helpful hints

• Read your policy right away. Know your coverages, limits, exclusions, and required notice or time limits.
• Report the claim promptly and follow insurer instructions for emergency mitigation (protect property from further damage).
• Make a claim file: keep all emails, letters, photos, estimates, receipts, and a call log with dates, names, and summaries of conversations.
• Get independent repair estimates and keep invoices for repairs or temporary measures.
• Respond quickly to reasonable requests for information. If you object to a request, state why in writing rather than ignoring it.
• Don’t sign away rights or accept a full release without understanding what you are giving up.
• If the insurer denies or delays, use the New Hampshire Insurance Department consumer complaint process before or while exploring other legal options.

Where to find more information and file a complaint

New Hampshire Insurance Department — Consumer services and how to file a complaint: https://www.nh.gov/insurance/consumer/

Search New Hampshire statutes (RSA) to find insurance‑related law and specific statutory provisions: https://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/indexes/default.html

Short checklist for starting a claim

• Notify your insurer and get a claim number.
• Document the loss with photos and receipts.
• Keep a written record of all communications.
• Obtain independent estimates and keep invoices.
• Contact the NH Insurance Department if you’re stuck.

Disclaimer: This information is educational and general. It does not create an attorney‑client relationship and is not legal advice. For advice about your specific claim or legal rights under New Hampshire law, consult a licensed New Hampshire attorney or contact the New Hampshire Insurance Department.