Car repairs can be costly, and whether your insurance helps cover them depends on your policy. Some plans pay for accident-related damage, while others cover repairs from weather, theft or vandalism.

Insurers do not pay for what you lost, they pay for what you can prove. Before you swing a hammer, rip out drywall, or tow a damaged car, you need a clear record of what happened and what it cost you.

When it comes to insurance, it’s important to read the fine print. You want to know what might void your home insurance so that you can avoid doing anything screwing yourself. Hiring someone for home ...