Calling the Insurance Company after repairs

[Charles Stubblebine]

The HVAC condensor unit located in the attic of one of my rental properties had a freon leak which caused the unit to ice over and flood the drop ceiling in one of the bedrooms. I'm looking at a $2000 repair for the ceiling replacment and another $500 for the HVAC repairs bringing the total to $2500. 

I have not called the insurance company yet, but planning to, because I think the deductible is $550. I have never had to use the insurance yet so that is why I am not sure how this process works.  

If I have the repairs done before starting the claim with the insurance company does that cancel the insurance company from paying for the expenses?