Published on this website: October 19, 2026
A-Z Insurance · Information checked: 2026-10-11 · Original publication date unknown
Why is your home insurance claim still open? A useful next step is to establish what the file is waiting for, who is responsible and when you should receive another update.
Historical averages are not your claim deadline
FSRA’s June 2024 review used insurer-reported data for 2019–2022. Average settlement times were 127, 128, 138 and 123 days respectively. The 47–180-day range represents individual insurers’ averages for 2022, not the shortest and longest individual claims or a 2026 service commitment. FSRA did not independently verify the data; reporting limitations also existed.
Reported delay factors included supply disruption, catastrophes, staffing and skilled-labour shortages, complex losses and investigation. This does not establish that every delay is reasonable. Source: FSRA’s 2024 review.
Ask four practical questions
Have your claim number ready and ask your adjuster:
- What documents, estimates or inspections are outstanding, and who will supply them?
- Is there a written coverage decision? Which items remain under review?
- What is the next step, and when should I expect an update?
- How will you tell me if that estimate changes?
After a call, a short follow-up email can record the agreed actions, contacts and dates. Do not guess missing facts on a loss inventory merely to move the file forward; identify what remains uncertain.
Keep records and clarify temporary expenses
Notify your insurer promptly and take reasonable steps to prevent further damage where it is safe. Keep photos, inventories, receipts and repair records, and discuss restoration arrangements with the adjuster. If temporary accommodation is needed, ask about additional living expense eligibility, limits and reimbursable items. Not every cost of being away from home is automatically covered. See IBC’s home-claim guidance.
If ordinary follow-up does not resolve the issue
Use the insurer’s internal complaint process and request a written explanation and final position letter. Depending on the issue, review the General Insurance OmbudService or FSRA process. A complaint is not a promise of a reversed decision or faster payment. See the federal insurance complaint guide and FSRA’s complaint information.
A-Z Insurance can help you understand policy terms and the claims communication process. The insurer determines coverage and settlement under the contract and circumstances. This article does not guarantee a result or timeline. Contact 905-707-2929 or info@azinsure.ca.