Common Claims Questions

Please see common claims questions below based on type. 

CLAIMS FAQs

How will this loss affect my premium?

Insurance rates don’t always increase after an insurance claim.  However, every situation is different. If you have any concerns, please contact your local agent.

Where do I report a claim?

You can report a claim 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by choosing one of the following:

What happens after the claim has been reported?

  • After you have reported a claim, a Germania adjuster will review it
  • The adjuster will contact you for additional information
  • The adjuster may schedule time to inspect the damages
  • Once the estimate has been approved the repairs can be scheduled

What are the payment options?

You have two payment options:

  1. 1Receive a physical check, mailed the next business day, or
  2. Opt for a digital payment through PayPal, Venmo, ACH, or Direct-to-Debit. An email from One Inc, our payment processor, will be sent to you once the claim payment has been approved, guiding you through the payment process.

Note: The claim payment process may differ if multiple parties, such as vendors, mortgagees and or lienholders are involved.

AUTO CLAIMS FAQs

What should I do at the scene of an accident?

  • Relocate your vehicle to the closest safe location
  • Contact the police to determine if an officer should be present
  • If anyone is hurt, call 911
  • Take photos of each damaged vehicle or item

What information do I collect at the scene?

  • Gather names and contact information for any party involved including all drivers and passengers
  • Vehicle descriptions (year, make, model)
  • Driver’s license information
  • License plate information
  • Insurance company and policy information
  • Name and contact information for any witnesses to the accident that are not involved
  • Address or location of accident scene
  • Any police officer’s name/badge number/case number
  • Take photos, if it is safe to do so

Does Germania have any preferred service facilities?

Yes. We offer Germania Premier Service facilities near you to handle your repairs quickly and efficiently. The repairs are guaranteed for as long as you own the vehicle. Find an Auto Repair Shop near you.

When can I expect the adjuster to contact me for my claim?

Typically, the turnaround time is 24 to 48 business hours.

Who should receive my deductible?

You pay your deductible to the repair facility directly.

What if the initial payment is not enough to repair my vehicle?

The repair facility will need to submit documentation to the adjuster for any additional damage found.

When can I get a rental car?

  • If your vehicle is not drivable, contact the Claims Department at 877-GERMANIA (877-437-6264) to determine if your coverage includes a rental car.
  • If the vehicle is drivable, the rental will be authorized upon the agreed repair start date.

Should I sign any documents at the scene of the accident?

Do not sign any documents unless it is from the police or your insurance agent.

Remember, dealing with accidents can be a frightening experience that stirs up various emotions. It is crucial to try and maintain a sense of calmness throughout. Additionally, being polite is essential, and it is important not to accept fault regardless of your perceived responsibility.

PROPERTY CLAIMS FAQs

What actions do I need to take before filing a claim?

  • For any claim, resolve the immediate issue (if possible) to protect your property and prevent further damage.
  • If there’s a water leak, please shut off the water
  • In the event of a theft, fire or vandalism claim call 911 and report it to the proper authorities

How do I file a claim?

You can report your claim online or call 877-GERMANIA (877-437-6264)

What do I need to report a claim?

  • Policy number
  • Date of the loss
  • Address of the loss location
  • A brief description of the loss
  • Your current contact information

After I report my claim, what can I expect from the claims process?

An adjuster will contact you to gather more information of the damage(s) and determine if your claim needs an inspection or can be handled more quickly with a virtual inspection. During catastrophic events, it might take longer to be contacted by an adjuster.

How long will it take to settle my claim?

We offer multiple options for claim inspections, including on-site visits by a Germania adjuster, virtual methods, or working with a trusted partner. Our aim is to provide efficient and thorough assessments for all claims. If an adjuster is present on-site, we strive to issue a payment during the inspection. In cases where virtual methods or assistance from a trusted partner are utilized, the check will be mailed to you within 1-5 business days after we have completed the claims handling process. Our priority is to handle your claim promptly and ensure a positive experience throughout the process.

My home is unlivable; can I stay at a hotel?

Our policy provides additional living expense coverage. These costs can include food, temp housing and animal boarding that is above normal living expenses. You will need to keep copies of all your receipts and invoices to support these additional costs. Please check your policy or ask your claims adjuster for more details.

How long do I need to keep damaged items around?

Ask your adjuster before discarding any damaged items.

Will my mortgage be listed on my check?

Your mortgagee has a financial interest in the property, so they will be included as a payee on your check. It would be a good idea to contact your mortgagee, inform them of the claim and ask what their procedures are.

Do I need to hire my own contractor?

Yes, in most cases, you will need to hire your own contractor to complete the necessary repairs.

My contractor says it will cost more than the adjuster estimated. What do I do?

To ensure a thorough evaluation, you or your contractor must submit documentation to the adjuster. Following their review, a reinspection may be required, additional photos may be requested, or a determination will be made regarding the relevance of any additional charges to the claim.

 

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