For most people, experiencing a break-in is traumatic enough. The last thing anyone wants to do next is get lost in paperwork.

As understandable as this is, insurance is often the best way to replace your belongings and fix your property. Here, we'll look at what you can do to prepare for and navigate your claim.

Report the Incident

Calling police for a break-in may not result in immediate, on-scene assistance, but you still need to make a report. Police will take an official statement and record details of the incident, including the location, time, and victim's contact information.

Police will also detail how the break-in likely occurred and what evidence they see to support their investigation, such as which rooms thieves first entered, how they entered, and how they left. Most insurance companies often request this report first, even before evaluating your personal records.

Make Emergency Repairs

From door locks to windows to security systems, it doesn't take much for a criminal to do major damage to your home. To protect yourself, you should make immediate repairs to keep yourself and your property safe. Just be sure to document the damage first and keep all your receipts.

For other types of damaged property, such as furniture, you should leave it as-is until your claim is settled.

Document Physical Damage

Take photos and videos as soon as possible after a break-in occurs - including everything that may be relevant, such as broken windows, missing jewelry, and dumped-out drawers.

You might also need to submit recent photos or videos of your property for comparison. For example, you may have a picture or recording showing your stolen stereo system or artwork in the background before the incident.

Collect Evidence

Home warranties, receipts, user manuals, and bank statements can all be used to prove which belongings were stolen. This information can also provide dates of purchase, so insurance adjusters can factor in depreciation. For most claims, you'll need the date/location of the purchase, brand, model, and estimated value.

Copperate With Your Adjuster

It's critical to file a claim as quickly as possible after you have everything together. Depending on your policy coverage, you're usually given a choice to replace a lost item with a new version or get the estimated cash value. As you work with your adjuster, promptly answer any questions and hold onto your documentation until you're satisfied with the final resolution.

While you may have your work cut out for you after a break-in, better prep work can help you progress from one step of the process to the next more efficiently. If you're looking for a team that will treat you with the respect and compassion you deserve, choose a reputable carrier.