Once a loss has been sustained, a claim must be timely filed with your insurance company.  If the loss is from theft, you must contact the police to report the theft.  Be sure to provide as much information as possible about the stolen items and request a copy of the police report for your insurer. 

Document everything very carefully with photos and videos. 

Your insurance company will do a thorough investigation to determine whether and how much to compensate you for the loss. You will be interviewed by an adjustor and may be required to give a notarized statement as to the facts surrounding the loss. You might be examined under oath, similar to a deposition.  You may also be required to submit a sworn Proof of Loss within a specified number of days established by the policy.  It is critical to read and comply with the policy’s post-loss conditions, such as those set forth in the policy’s Duties in the Event of Loss provision.

When in doubt, it is important to hire an attorney or public adjustor to guide you through this process, and help you prepare the right information to document your claim, so that you maximize your recovery.