Insurance Claims for Water Damage: Do’s and Don’ts
The most common types of house insurance claims are those for water damage. Water damage is third in most claims behind wind and hail damage. Homeowners are frequently shocked to learn that their home insurance doesn’t cover everything. It is advisable to call an adjuster for your insurance claim to be authorized and reimbursed, regardless of whether you are dealing with a new or existing claim. To make the procedure simpler, here are several points to remember.
Take Reasonable Steps to Stop the Flow
Act immediately to stop further water from flowing where it shouldn’t if you are convinced it is safe. This may involve closing your home’s main valve (which frequently takes a wrench) or another specific water supply valve, also known as a “stop.”
Know the Coverage of Your Policy
You may already be aware that your homeowner’s insurance covers water damage. The forms of water damage, however, may also affect this coverage. Here are a few instances:
- A foundation with cracks
- Backups in the plumbing
- Damage caused by a storm
- Flood damage
- Obstructed drains or other plumbing difficulties
- Ruptured pipes
- Unintentional or abrupt discharge
Report the Claim to Your Insurance Agent
Time is crucial when dealing with water damage, so ensure you get it right. If you can’t fully clean and dry the area, it makes sense to call a firm specializing in disaster restoration in Powhatan. Insurance companies might be reluctant to endorse a specific water damage firm, but they should be able to point you in the direction of several nearby companies.
Hire a Reputable Water Damage Cleanup Firm if Necessary
Before moisture or mildew spreads, it is necessary to pump away any standing water and completely dry any surfaces using a water restoration company. The contractor may need to use specific cleaning agents after sealing and ventilating the moist area if mold is already present.
Contact Your Adjuster
An adjuster will visit your house as quickly as possible on behalf of the insurance company. They will assess the damage and enquire how and when it happened. The adjuster is first attempting to calculate the cost of the necessary repairs. Second, he wants to know if anyone is at fault.
Consult With Several Contractors
While visiting with various contractors may be less crucial for smaller tasks, it makes sense to choose the ideal partner for larger projects. You are responsible for checking contractors to ensure they are appropriately licensed and insured. Showing more than one expert agrees may be helpful if your adjuster’s estimate needs to be higher. Click here to learn more about trusted contractors.
Negotiate the Repair Settlement
Your insurance agent can also help you here. Ask your agent to mediate if you lack the guts to negotiate with the technicalities. They are more adept at this procedure and will likely understand how to present the argument you’re putting out.
Conclusion
Invest in a system that detects water leaks and flooding if you are concerned about water damage. The detector will either disconnect the main water valve or be wired into your current alarm system (local or with remote supervision). A straightforward system, primarily intended for home use, comprises a wireless water and flood detector with a local alarm or connected to a telephone receiver/dialer system. Last but not least, you’ll want to be sure that you have a qualified restoration crew.
