# What to do after a loss

> A short checklist for the first days after a fire, flood, break-in or other loss, and how Claimfrog helps at each step.

- Source: https://www.claimfrog.com/help/what-to-do-after-a-loss
- Product: Claimfrog, the home inventory app for insurance claims
- Topic: Claims
- Plan: Included on every plan, including Free.
- Updated: 2026-10-24

A loss is stressful. This checklist covers the general steps most insurers expect. Your policy and your insurer's instructions always come first, and Claimfrog doesn't give insurance or legal advice.

## In the first hours

1. **Make sure everyone is safe.** Call emergency services if needed.
2. **For theft or vandalism, report it to the police** and note the report number. Your insurer will usually ask for it.
3. **Prevent further damage** if it's safe to: shut off water, cover broken windows. Keep receipts for anything you buy.

## As soon as you can

4. **Tell your insurer.** Many policies require prompt notice. In Claimfrog, your insurer's claims website and your agent's contact are on the dashboard and in claim mode.
5. **Photograph the damage before you clean up or throw anything away.** Add these photos to the affected items and tag them **Condition / damage**.
6. **Start a claim in Claimfrog.** [Claim mode](https://www.claimfrog.com/help/start-a-claim) lists everything that was in the affected rooms, with values and original photos, so you don't have to rebuild it from memory.

## When your adjuster asks for your list

7. **Send the claim package** PDF and, on Premium, a [read-only link](https://www.claimfrog.com/help/share-a-read-only-link) so they can see everything online.
8. **Fill the gaps.** Claim mode shows items missing photos, receipts or serial numbers. Search your email for order confirmations and your phone for older photos.
9. **Keep records** of every conversation with your insurer: date, who you spoke to, what was agreed. Mark the claim **Filed** in Claimfrog and add the claim number.

## Rental hosts

Platforms have short deadlines. Airbnb asks hosts to report damage within 14 days of check-out, or before the next guest checks in, whichever comes first. See [Guest damage claims](https://www.claimfrog.com/help/guest-damage-claims).