When a claim is made under a policy which insures property, the insured person is provided with a "Proof of Loss" form to complete. Why is this done? To document the replacement value of the property damaged or destroyed. To place the onus on the insured to prove the loss and to help prevent fraudulent claims. The document is necessary to take to an appraiser to determine the amount of the damage. The completed document must be retained by the insurer for 24 months for auditing by the Department of Insurance.