How to Work with Insurance Companies After Property Damage
Navigating Property Damage: A Guide to Your Insurance
When a storm, flood, or fire impacts your home, the physical cleanup is typically the easy part. Frustration with understanding and dealing with your insurance company can make paying for the repairs and restoration even more stressful. However, it’s essential to understand your coverage and the steps required to restore your home to its pre-disaster condition. At Kelmann Restoration, we’ve helped hundreds of customers in the aftermath of the disaster, and are confident we can assist you, too.
Understanding Your Insurance Policy
Most insurance companies won’t let you change or purchase new policies right before a big storm. However, understanding your current policy in the face of an impending storm is essential. Before the storm, take the time to read your specific policy and ensure your paperwork is in a secure spot so you can reference it if needed after the storm. Standard homeowners’ insurance typically covers sudden and accidental damage, such as windstorms, fire, and certain types of water damage. However, exclusions frequently apply.
Contact Your Insurance Company Immediately After Damage Occurs
Prompt communication with your insurance company is essential for the insurance claims process. Getting in touch immediately sets the wheels in motion, allowing adjusters to assess the situation while the evidence is fresh. It also helps you secure funds faster so you can start the rebuilding process without unnecessary delays. Most policies require you to report damage quickly. Delays can lead to complications or even the denial of your claim.
How Do You Document Property Damage Properly?
Thorough documentation serves as the foundation for successful property damage claims. Before cleaning up any debris, take extensive photos and videos of the affected areas. Capture wide-angle shots of entire rooms and close-ups of specific ruined items. Create a written inventory listing the damaged belongings, noting their approximate age, original cost, and any available receipts. If you have any pictures before, they can also be used for reference.
How Should You Notify Your Insurance Company?
Call your insurance agent or the company’s dedicated claims hotline as soon as you have secured your family’s safety and documented the scene.
- Have Your Policy Number Ready
- Be Prepared to Provide a Clear, Factual Description of What Happened, When It Occurred, and the Current State of Your Home
- Ask for a Claim Number and the Name of the Adjuster Assigned to Your Case.
- Keep a Detailed Log of All Interactions
What Common Mistakes Should I Avoid After Property Damage?
During a crisis, people often make errors that complicate their recovery. Throwing away damaged items before the adjuster sees them is a significant mistake. Always keep ruined materials on-site until you receive permission to discard them. Another frequent mistake is making permanent repairs before the insurance company approves the scope of work. You should absolutely take temporary measures to prevent further damage, such as placing a tarp over a leaky roof or extracting standing water, but hold off on full reconstruction. Finally, never sign a settlement agreement if you feel it does not adequately cover your losses.
Trust a Local Restoration Professional to Help
Kelmann Restoration is available 24/7 for all of your disaster restoration services. We partner with national and local homeowner insurance companies to ensure you receive maximum value for damage caused to your home. We can provide accurate estimates, help mitigate secondary damage, and guide you through the complexities of the recovery effort. Reach out to our team today to ensure your home is rebuilt safely and efficiently.