What must an insured prove when they file a claim for damages?

When an insured files a claim for damages, they must provide proof of loss. This documentation substantiates the claim by detailing what was damaged, the extent of the damage, and how it occurred. Proof of loss is critical because it serves as the basis for the insurer to evaluate the claim and determine the amount of compensation that is warranted under the terms of the policy. It typically includes information such as receipts for damaged property, police reports if applicable, and photographs of the damage. This evidence not only validates that the loss occurred but also aligns with the coverage specified in the policy, enabling the insurer to process the claim effectively.

The other options—insurable interest, claim legitimacy, and eligibility for coverage—while important concepts in the insurance domain, do not directly pertain to the specific requirement met when filing a claim for damages. Insurable interest relates to the insured's financial stake in the property, claim legitimacy speaks to whether the claim itself is justified based on the circumstances, and eligibility for coverage pertains to whether the situation falls within the provisions of the policy. However, none of these are the primary component that proves the actual damages incurred, which is required when filing a claim.