Top Reasons Claims Are Delayed (and How to Avoid Them)
Filing an insurance claim can feel stressful—especially when you’re waiting on repairs, payment, or approval to move forward. Many customers expect a claim to be resolved quickly, but the truth is: claims can take longer than expected for several common reasons.
The good news? Many delays are preventable.
Below are the top reasons insurance claims get delayed and what you can do to help keep the process moving smoothly.
1. Missing Information or Incomplete Paperwork
One of the most common causes of delays is simple: the claim is missing key details.
Examples include:
missing driver or vehicle information
incorrect policy details
incomplete claim forms
missing signatures or documentation
How to avoid it:
When filing your claim, provide as much detail as possible. Double-check names, phone numbers, addresses, and any forms requested by the carrier.
2. Delays in Reporting the Claim
Waiting too long to report an accident or damage can create issues. The longer the delay, the harder it may be to verify what happened—especially for:
theft claims
water damage claims
accident-related claims
How to avoid it:
Report the claim as soon as possible after the incident occurs. Even if you’re unsure whether you want to proceed, it’s better to start the claim and ask questions.
3. Waiting on Police Reports
Auto accident claims often require a police report—especially if:
injuries occurred
multiple vehicles were involved
fault is disputed
theft or vandalism occurred
Police reports can take days (or even weeks) to become available depending on the department.
How to avoid it:
Ask the officerH (responding officer) for the report number and where it will be available. Provide that information to the insurance adjuster right away.
4. Difficulty Reaching the Customer or Other Parties
Insurance companies often need to confirm details with:
the policyholder
drivers involved
witnesses
other insurance carriers
If they cannot reach someone, the claim may stall.
How to avoid it:
Answer unknown calls during the claim process and check voicemail/email frequently. Respond quickly to adjuster requests.
5. Coverage Questions or Policy Verification
Sometimes claims are delayed because the carrier must verify:
whether coverage applies
who is listed on the policy
whether premiums are current
whether the vehicle/property is insured correctly
whether exclusions apply
This is especially common when there are changes such as:
a new driver
a newly purchased vehicle
a recent move
a newly renovated home
How to avoid it:
Keep your policy information updated and notify your agent about major changes before something happens.
6. Disagreements About Fault (Auto Claims)
When an accident involves multiple vehicles, determining fault may take time. The carrier may need:
statements from both drivers
photos or video footage
witness statements
police reports
If fault is unclear, the claim can take longer to resolve.
How to avoid it:
At the scene, take clear photos, gather witness contact information, and provide a detailed statement to your insurer.
7. Repair Shop or Contractor Delays
Claims often depend on repair timelines. Delays can occur when:
repair shops are booked out
parts are on backorder
contractors have long scheduling windows
supplements are needed after teardown
In auto claims, hidden damage may not appear until the shop begins repairs, which can require additional approval.
How to avoid it:
Choose reputable repair shops, schedule early, and stay in contact with the shop. Ask them to submit supplements quickly.
8. Weather Disasters and High Claim Volume
After storms, hail events, floods, or widespread disasters, insurance carriers receive an extremely high volume of claims at once. That can slow down:
inspections
adjuster response times
repair scheduling
contractor availability
How to avoid it:
File your claim early, document damage immediately, and be patient—these events often affect entire communities at once.
9. Missing Photos or Lack of Documentation
Claims move faster when the carrier has clear evidence of damage. Delays occur when:
photos are blurry or incomplete
there are no “before” photos (for property claims)
the carrier needs additional documentation
How to avoid it:
Take multiple clear photos from different angles. Include wide shots and close-ups. Keep receipts for damaged items if possible.
10. Payment Processing or Lienholder Requirements
If your vehicle is financed, the payment may include your lienholder (the bank). This can slow things down due to:
additional paperwork
required signatures
separate mailing and processing times
How to avoid it:
Ask the adjuster early whether the payment will involve the lienholder and what steps are required.
How to Help Your Claim Move Faster
Here are a few simple steps that can make a big difference:
report claims promptly
respond quickly to calls, emails, and texts
provide all requested documents early
take clear photos and save receipts
keep your policy information up to date
choose a reliable repair shop or contractor
Need Help With a Claim? We’re Here for You
Claims can be confusing, but you do not have to handle them alone. If you have questions about your coverage, documentation, or next steps, our team is happy to help guide you through the process.
