What Is a Proof of Loss and Why Is It Required for Insurance Claims?
A proof of loss is a formal sworn statement submitted by the insured (or their public adjuster) to the insurance carrier confirming the amount of the claim. It is a legal document — the insured signs it under oath — and it is required by most property insurance policies as a condition of coverage. Failing to submit a proof of loss within the policy's required timeframe (typically 60 days from the date of loss, though this varies by policy and state) can result in the carrier denying the claim on procedural grounds.
Public adjusters are responsible for ensuring that the proof of loss is submitted correctly, on time, and for the full amount supported by the scope of loss. A proof of loss submitted for less than the documented amount can limit the insured's recovery.
What a Proof of Loss Must Include
A standard proof of loss form requires the insured's name and address, the policy number and carrier name, the date and cause of loss, a description of the damaged property, the actual cash value (ACV) of the damaged property, the amount claimed under the policy, and the insured's signature under oath. Some carriers have their own proof of loss forms; others accept a standard form. The public adjuster should review the policy's proof of loss requirements before submitting.
The Proof of Loss Deadline
Most property insurance policies require the insured to submit a proof of loss within 60 days of the date of loss. Some policies allow extensions; some states have statutes that modify the deadline. Missing the deadline can give the carrier grounds to deny the claim, though courts in many states have held that carriers must demonstrate prejudice from a late proof of loss before denying on that basis. The safest approach is to submit on time and request an extension in writing if more time is needed.
Proof of Loss vs. Scope of Loss
The scope of loss describes what was damaged and what it will cost to repair. The proof of loss formalizes the claim amount in a sworn statement. The scope drives the number; the proof of loss submits it. Both are required in most claims, and the scope must be completed before the proof of loss is submitted — the proof of loss amount should match the scope of loss total.
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See also: How to Complete a Proof of Loss, What Is a Scope of Loss Report?, The Complete Guide to Demand Letters.
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