Your Guide to Filing a Business Insurance Claim
Filing a business insurance claim can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re focused on getting your operations back on track.
Whether you’ve experienced commercial vehicle damage, a collision, or property loss, knowing the right steps, preparing in advance, and working closely with your TG Group broker can make the process far more manageable. Here’s a clear, action-oriented guide to help you through it.
Document Everything Immediately
Take photos and videos: As soon as it's safe, capture images of the damage or loss—inventory, property, vehicle damage, or any affected equipment.
Make a detailed list: Write down everything that’s been damaged, destroyed, or stolen. Include approximate values, original receipts, invoices, and warranties if you have them.
Save evidence: Don’t discard damaged items right away (unless unsafe)—your insurer may want to inspect them first.
Keep all related receipts: Anything from cleanup costs, temporary repairs, or emergency work after the loss should be kept.
This level of documentation helps your insurer assess the claim and prevents missing out on covered items.
Contact Your Insurance Broker Right Away
Reach out to your TG Group broker or insurer as soon as possible to report the incident. Many insurers offer 24-hour claim lines for emergencies.
When reporting the claim, have your policy number handy, and be ready to explain exactly what happened, when, and where.
Ask about business interruption coverage (if you have it). If your business must pause operations, this coverage could compensate for lost income.
Keep track of what you tell your insurer and note who you spoke to—this helps keep the process clear and organized.
Fill Out a Proof of Loss (If Required)
Your insurer or broker may ask you to complete a Proof of Loss form, which is a detailed statement of what was lost or damaged, and its estimated value.
Often, this form needs to be sworn and signed, affirming that the information is accurate and true.
There may be a deadline for returning this form (for example, many insurers ask for it within 30 days).
Work with Your Claim Adjuster
Once your claim is opened, the insurance company will usually assign a claims adjuster. This person examines the loss, reviews your documentation, and determines coverage.
Be transparent and thorough: share all photos, lists, receipts, and any other relevant documents.
Ask your adjuster how repairs will be handled. Some insurers have preferred vendors, but you may be allowed to choose your own supplier — just be aware of potential cost differences.
Keep records of communications (emails, calls) and follow up regularly to track the progress of your claim.
Prevent Further Damage
Your insurance policy likely requires you to mitigate further damage. That means doing what you reasonably can to stop additional loss – for example, boarding up broken windows, covering exposed inventory, or doing temporary repairs.
But don’t make major permanent repairs before the adjuster has assessed the damage (unless you’ve confirmed with your insurer that it’s okay).
Review Your Settlement Options
Once the adjuster’s assessment is complete, your insurer may offer you compensation either to repair, replace, or reimburse for your losses.
Understand your deductible, coverage limits, and any exclusions in your policy before accepting an offer.
If the contractor you choose to work with charges more than the insurer's estimate, you may need to pay the difference.
Confirm how payments will be made — directly to you, to the vendor, or a combination — and make sure you’re clear on timelines.
Get Back to Business
After you agree on a settlement, act quickly to execute repairs or replace damaged assets so you can resume operations.
If you have business interruption coverage, work with your insurer to document and claim your lost income during the downtime.
Finally, review your policy once the claim is settled. Make sure you understand any gaps or limitations, and talk to your TG Group broker about whether adjustments are needed for better protection in the future.
Why This Matters for Your Business
At TG Group, we believe in empowering our clients with clarity. We know that when unexpected losses hit, what matters most is your ability to recover quickly and confidently.
By understanding these steps, you can make smarter decisions, preserve the value of your business, and minimize disruption. And if ever the worst happens, you’ll be ready — with the documentation, the support, and the process in hand. For more information, visit the Insurance Bureau of Canada’s website.
If you’d like help reviewing your policy (or filing a claim if something has already happened), don’t hesitate to reach out to your TG Group broker. We’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us at 519-370-2006 or info@tg-group.ca or visit our Commercial Insurance page for more details.
