Proof of loss
Proof of loss is the evidence and formal statement you provide to your insurer to support a claim — describing what happened, when, and what the loss is worth. Most policies require proof of loss to be submitted within a specified period after the event.
What counts as proof of loss
Proof of loss varies by claim type: for theft, a police report and receipts or photographs of the stolen items; for property damage, photographs of the damage and contractor repair estimates; for medical claims, medical records and itemised bills; for motor claims, accident reports and repair assessments. Policies often require a signed sworn statement (a "proof of loss form") to be submitted within 60–90 days.
Keeping records before a loss occurs significantly speeds up the claims process. See our home insurance claims guide for what to document proactively, and our claims guidance hub for general claim advice.