How to File a Claim for Home Contents Cover in the UAE

How to File a Claim for Home Contents Cover in the UAE

Blog Article

Home accidents, burglary, or unexpected home damages are stressful—but being aware that you carry home contents insurance in the UAE frees you from the tension because you'll never have to go through the expense of the losses alone. Whether homeowner or renter, knowing how to make the right claim quickly makes all the difference when recovering losses.

Here in this guide, we will take you through how to make a home contents claim in the UAE and give tips to make the process simpler.

What is Home Contents Cover?
Home contents insurance covers your personal belongings at home—furniture, electronics, appliances, clothes, jewelry, etc. It covers against common hazards such as:

Theft or burglary

Fire and smoke damage

Water leak (from inside)

Accidental damage (if included in your policy)

In the event that any of these events occur, you may recover from your insurer on refund of the value of lost or destroyed goods—up to the limits of the policy.

Step-by-Step: How to Make a Home Contents Claim in the UAE
1. Act Promptly and Secure the Scene
The instant you know that there is loss or damage, act at once. If it is a burglary or theft, immediately call the local police and report officially. For water damage, switch off the water supply if possible and try your best to prevent further damage.

2. Report to Your Insurance Company
All UAE insurers have claim filing time frames, usually 24 to 48 hours. Call your insurer's claims hotline number or log in to their online account or app (if they offer one, as Shory does). Have ready to provide your:

Policy number

Description of the incident

Time and location of the loss approximately

3. Document the Damage or Loss
Photos do matter. Take clear photos or video of the damaged items, affected areas, and points of entry (in case of theft). If possible, attach:

Original purchase receipts or guarantees for the items

Serial numbers or documentation for valuable items

Reference number on the police report

This assists your insurer in verifying the loss and ascertaining its value quickly.

4. Complete the Claim Form
Your insurance company will typically send a claim form to complete, or get it online. Include all relevant documents such as:

Police report (for theft or vandalism)

Photos/videos

Invoices/receipts

Repair estimates or replacement quotation

Be honest and accurate in description. Misleading claims may be denied or held up.

5. Cooperate During Assessment
The insurer can send a loss adjuster to visit your property and assess the claim. Be present for any visits or calls that are necessary. The adjuster will examine the claim against your policy's terms, exclusions, and coverage limits.

⏳ How Long Does It Take?
After submitting all documents, most UAE insurers take 7–14 working days to process claims, although more complicated cases take longer. The result may be:

Approval with payout

Approval with item repair or replacement service

Partial approval (if coverage is partial)

Rejection (if the claim is beyond policy terms)

✅ Pro Tips to Make the Process Smoother
Keep an up-to-date home inventory with receipts and photos

Understand your policy's exclusions and claim limits

Keep the emergency contact details of your insurer handy

Don't dispose of damaged items until assessed

Final Thoughts
Getting a home contents cover in the UAE does not have to be stressful—especially if you're prepared. Knowing what to do can help you recover speedily and fairly. Whether you reside in an apartment or villa, knowing your cover and taking action promptly means you get the best out of your policy when you need it most.