Property and Casualty Insurance Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a duty of the insured following a loss?

1. Give notice of claim

2. Protect the property from further damage

3. Start repairs before notifying the insurer

4. Assist the insurer with claim investigation

The correct answer is: Start repairs before notifying the insurer

The duty of the insured after a loss involves several responsibilities aimed at minimizing damage and facilitating the claims process. One of these duties is to give timely notice of the claim, which ensures that the insurer is aware of the incident and can begin the claims investigation. Additionally, the insured must take reasonable steps to protect the property from further damage, demonstrating a commitment to safeguarding the insurer's interests as well as their own. Assisting the insurer with the investigation also plays a crucial role in providing necessary information and documentation regarding the loss. Starting repairs before notifying the insurer, however, is not a duty of the insured. In fact, doing so could complicate the claims process or even cause issues with the coverage, as the insurer needs to assess the damage as it was at the time of the loss. By requiring notification prior to repairs, the insurer can accurately evaluate the situation and determine the extent of the claim. Therefore, the act of starting repairs without prior notification can disrupt the necessary claim procedures and is not considered one of the obligations of the insured following a loss.