One of the worst things a homeowner could ever face is water damage. Imagine coming home to a soaked carpet or peeling walls, a disaster that can happen anytime and from anywhere.
According to most insurance companies, most home losses stem from water-related disasters. Appliance leaks, pipe bursts, drain clogs and frozen pipes are just a few of the issues that form a majority of claims.
Fortunately, insurance can take most of the load and help homeowners return to their normal lifestyle soon. To get a satisfactory compensation from the complicated insurance industry, it is important to do the claims correctly.
Level of Damage
Although everything tends to be chaotic during those initial days following the disaster, remember one thing: you have the responsibility to minimize the damage. Lack of intervention may offer the insurer the chance to deny all or part of the claim. Some of the interventions are as simple as turning off the water mains, repairing a leak or unblocking the drain. Sometimes you may be required to call the experts for professional water damage restoration.
Evidence Collected
When it comes to damaged components or items, do not throw them away yet. They form part of the evidence that the insurance company will be looking at. With the advent of smartphones, this part is easy nowadays. Be thorough in gathering evidence, and do so in videos if possible. Remember that the issue may go as far as the courts, where the judgment is based on evidence provided. Other supporting pieces such as notes, reports and quotes come in handy, too.
Contacting the Insurer
There is another loophole to be wary of- not reporting the matter to the insurer fast enough. Even with the belief that you can handle the repairs, it is important to contact the insurance company, just in case matters worsen later. Do so even if you think that the damage is not included in the policy. If this process sounds complicated, just ask your water damage restoration company for help.
Water vs. Flood Damage
Yes, there is a difference between flood damage and water damage. Flood damage is a natural occurrence while water damage is not. Water damage tends to be localized while flood damage causes extensive damage. Find out if your policy covers the kind of damage your home has incurred, keeping in mind that some insurers overlook flood damage.
Role of an Adjuster
In case you encounter challenges when engaging the insurer, contact a reliable public adjuster. They will give all sort of guidance, including helping you arrive at the best figure.
After a water damage disaster, lingering thoughts of whether claim will be denied or accepted start. If you have any doubts, it is best to engage the services of a professional. Hire an adjuster who will further your interests, not those of the insurance company. A reliable water restoration company may also help maximize your claim. Simply put, take note of the steps to follow and the partners to use during this process.
