Episode Summary: Did you know asking your insurance company a simple question about damage could follow you for years—even if they pay you $0? In this episode, we break down why a zero-dollar claim gets logged into your permanent claims history, how percentage deductibles actually work against you, and why getting an estimate first is the safest move to protect your wallet.

Key Takeaways & Timestamps:

• 00:00 - The $0 claim story: How a zero-payout claim got an application rejected
• 00:45 - Why inquiring can accidentally trigger a formal claim process
• 01:20 - How percentage deductibles work (1% of home value vs. damage cost)
• 02:00 - The Golden Rule: Getting an independent estimate BEFORE calling claims ...