When is it worth filling insurance claim?

[Julie M.]

There was a storm that damaged the siding of my rental property. I received a couple estimates between $2600-$3500. My tenant just mentioned a leak as well that may be due to the damage. My deductible is $2000. Is it worth it to file an insurance claim? I've read that following claims can increase my premium, so not sure it's worth it. Would appreciate any advice! Thanks 

[John Clark]

Quote from @Julie M.:

There was a storm that damaged the siding of my rental property. I received a couple estimates between $2600-$3500. My tenant just mentioned a leak as well that may be due to the damage. My deductible is $2000. Is it worth it to file an insurance claim? I've read that following claims can increase my premium, so not sure it's worth it. Would appreciate any advice! Thanks 

My rule of thumb has been don't file unless you receive 4X your deductible, so $10k in damages for a $2k deductible. Get someone to check (and fix) the leak ASAP, regardless of whether it's an insurance loss or not. NEVER delay on water-related problems.