will home insurance cover the cost?

Tips To Consider Before Filing Water Damage Claim

Whenever you have a water damage problem in a residential property, stress levels can go up fast. This is because you will risk facing structural damage and your belongings will be ruined too. 

But, things may be a little easier if the house is insured against this peril. When you call the company to inform them about the incident, they'll assign a water damage insurance adjuster. The expert is meant to verify the damages and assist with any details about the plan. 

So, how do you file a claim? Here are essential tips to remember to increase the chances of getting compensation.

Understand What the Insurance Policy Covers

Before you start filing for compensation, it's crucial to determine if the policy will cover the damages. Some insurance providers may have listed the specific damages, so you'll have to confirm that too. This can include risks like leaking pipes, wastewater backups, flood damage, cracks, blocked toilets, and other plumbing problems and storm-related damage. Knowing the exact damages the insurance company covers will help you determine if you qualify for compensation and prepare for the claim process.

Record All Damages

As you file the claim, you'll be expected to document everything about the incident. This will include the structure's condition, water, and damaged things. Taking several photos and videos helps the insurer determine the extent of the damages you incurred, so they can be accounted for. However, if you haven't documented anything, you will face issues because you cannot prove if the house and items were affected by the flooding.

Keep the Ruined Items

Once you take photos and/or videos of the items, don't be tempted to dispose of them. You must keep them until the insurance rep gets there and determines whether they require repair or replacement. When you remove the items, it won't be easy to know how much you'll get as compensation. Remember, the insurance company needs to factor in depreciation before offering compensation.

Drain the Water

If you already have photos and videos of the flooding incident and the insurance company has sent someone to check everything, you can drain the stagnant water. This will prevent additional damages, like moisture seeping into the walls or spreading to the floor or wooden items.

Avoid Making Repairs

Immediately after you report the water damage incident, the insurer will need to perform an inspection. This helps estimate the repairs and expenses. If you conduct repairs before getting the approval, the company will not know what repairs to cover, so you may not get the appropriate compensation.

Contact a local public adjuster to learn more. 


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