Getting Ready for Your Insurance Adjuster's Visit After Water Damage

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

Drying equipment running in a Cresson, PA home.

Water Damage In Your Home- What To Do?

You've experienced water damage in your Cresson, PA, home. Now, what do you do? After ensuring everyone is safe, it's time to call your insurance company.

What Your Home Insurance Policy Covers
Your agent will review your policy and determine if the damage is covered. Generally, your standard home insurance policy covers water damage from a peril causing sudden, immediate damage, such as:

• Burst water pipe
  
• Water heater leak
  
• Roof leak from a storm
  
  

It will not cover damage from flooding or poorly maintained plumbing.

Preparing for the Home Adjuster Visit
Your policy has a specified amount of time for you to file an insurance claim. Once you open a claim, your adjuster visits your residence to assess the damage. It's a good idea to prepare for the visit so that it will be productive and efficient.
First, make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. You can hire a contractor to make these fixes or do them yourself. Save your receipts so that you can turn them in as expenses. Your insurance can help you pay for professional water damage restoration.
Remember that because the money you spend on temporary repairs counts toward the amount of your total settlement, you don't want to overspend.
Collect as much information as you can about your damaged belongings:

• A description of the items
  
• Dates of purchase
  
• What it will cost to repair or replace the items
  
  

Give the information to the home adjuster and any receipts you have.
Find structural damage that you can show the adjuster. You may have damage to walls, floors or ceilings. Your electrical system may also need repairs. If you already have contractor bids, give copies to the adjuster.
Keep copies of all paperwork for yourself: receipts, bids, insurance information, etc.
Water damage is no fun, but preparing for a visit from your home adjuster can help you get through the claims process quickly and easily.