How to File a Water Damage Claim on Your Insurance
According to the Insurance Information Institute, about 1 in 50 homes will file a property damage claim for water damage each year.
If you’ve ever had to wade through water damage to protect your surviving furniture and valuables, you know how stressful it can be. While filing a water damage claim won’t provide an immediate fix, it can help get you on track for recovery. The process may seem complex, but a few simple steps can help you know what to expect from your insurance company.
Here’s how to claim water damage on your insurance plan.
Know What’s Covered
Your ability to file a claim depends on the type of water damage you’ve seen, as well as your policy. Water damage can come from a range of sources, including:
- Leaking, frozen, or burst pipes
- Leaking home appliances or HVAC systems
- Storms or flooding damage
- Household accidents
- Leaks through open windows or doors
- Heavy snow or ice that causes a roof collapse
- Drain or sewer backup
If you have a standard home policy, you might only have basic water damage insurance, unless you’ve added an endorsement. You also may not be covered for flood damage unless you’ve gotten a policy from a member of the National Flood Insurance Program.
Review your policy to understand what’s covered. In certain cases, you might be able to file for restoration, as well as living expenses for temporary lodging.
Document the Damage
You might not think about it in the moment, but it’s crucial to record proof of damage for your water damage claim insurance. Make sure to take pictures, videos, and preserve your damaged or broken belongings as evidence.
When in doubt, don’t throw anything away until an adjuster has come to take a look at the scene and your documentation. You should also avoid repairing or restoring the area for the time being.
Finally, you’ll want to make a list of any damaged possessions, including the makes and models of any devices. Your insurance company may offer to replace them at the estimated cost.
Prepare a Written Notice
Reach out to your insurance company to provide written notice of your claim.
You may need to fill out relevant forms or paperwork, depending on the company, but all of them will require the details you’ve gathered above.
Wait for the Investigation
Once your company has received your claim, they’ll get in touch with you to start an investigation and let you know how to proceed. They’ll also send out an adjuster, an employee, or an independent contractor who will come to inspect the damage.
The next water damage claims steps depend on the results of the investigation. If your policy will cover the damage, your insurance company will send an estimate for the cost of repairs, replacements, and/or restoration. You’ll receive a check in the mail, as well as an additional check after the final bill.
If your policy does not cover the damage, the company will explain why in writing.
Act Fast with Your Water Damage Claim
Water damage restoration can take time, and it’s important to start the process as soon as possible to avoid the spread of water damage, mildew, or mold. Filing your water damage claim soon after the event can help you start the process of getting your home back to normal.
If you’re dealing with devastating water damage, we’re here to help. Contact us at any time. We offer 24/7 emergency service as well as water extraction, and we’d love to help you repair the damage to your home.