Quick answer: Start with the policy schedule and wording, completed claim form, proof of the event, evidence of ownership or insurable interest, itemised loss, receipts or valuations and all insurer communications. The exact list depends on the policy and claim.
Read the policy and note the notice deadline
Collect the schedule, full wording, endorsements, proposal information and premium evidence. Locate the insured event, exclusions, excess, notification method, cooperation duties, proof-of-loss requirements and any deadlines. Do not rely only on a broker’s summary or an old renewal schedule.
Create an incident record
Write down when and where the event happened, who was present, what was seen, what action followed and when each person was contacted. Keep police or fire reports, medical records, repair assessments, photographs, CCTV preservation requests and witness contacts where relevant. Distinguish what you observed from what someone told you.
Show ownership and quantify the loss
Gather purchase invoices, asset registers, title or lease records, repair or replacement quotations, stock records, payroll or interruption information and proof of payments. Prepare an itemised schedule that links each amount to evidence and explains depreciation or salvage where relevant.
Notify accurately and preserve property
Use the notice channel specified in the policy and keep proof of submission. Answer questions accurately; label estimates as estimates and correct mistakes promptly. Take reasonable steps to protect people and prevent additional damage, but photograph the condition and ask the insurer about inspection before disposing of important evidence when safe to do so.
Keep a claim correspondence log
Record claim reference, adjuster details, request, response, dates and promised next steps. Send documents securely and retain the exact versions. If a claim is delayed, reduced or declined, ask for the policy clause, factual basis and calculation relied on, then note any complaint or review route and relevant time limits.
When the dispute is material
A disagreement may turn on policy wording, disclosure, causation, valuation, notice or evidence. Organise the policy, chronology, proof of loss and insurer’s reasons before accepting a settlement or signing a discharge. General checklists cannot decide coverage on the individual facts.
Questions people ask
What documents should I send with an insurance claim?
Start with the policy schedule and wording, completed claim form, proof of the event, evidence of ownership or insurable interest, itemised loss, receipts or valuations and all insurer communications. The exact list depends on the policy and claim.
Should I repair or replace damaged property before the insurer inspects it?
Take dated photographs and preserve damaged items where safe. Check the policy and ask the insurer before disposal or non-urgent repairs, while taking reasonable steps to prevent further damage and protect people.
What if I cannot provide every requested document immediately?
Tell the insurer what is available, explain what is pending and when you expect it, and request clarification where a demand is unclear. Keep a copy of everything sent and note the date and channel.
Official sources and scope
For the current rule and any forms or rates, check the official sources: Insurance Regulatory Authority of Kenya · Insurance Act · Kenya Law. This guide is general information, not advice on a particular transaction or dispute. Laws, regulations and administrative requirements can change; check the position that applies to your facts before acting.
Related guidance
CS Advocates LLP insurance law practice. Related reading: First steps after an accident claim · Reading accident insurance policy wording · Questions in an insurance coverage dispute.
This is general information, not legal advice on a particular matter, and does not create an advocate-client relationship. For advice on your specific situation, contact CS Advocates LLP for a confidential, conflict-checked consultation.