What we hand you
- Wide and close photos of every wet room, taken before anything moves
- Moisture readings on a simple map, with the dry standard and each day after
- An estimate with drying, removal, drywall, insulation and paint as separate lines
- Notes on the cause as the plumber or roofer found it
What a contractor should not do
State insurance regulators have issued cease and desist orders against contractors who acted as public adjusters. A contractor may write an estimate. A contractor may not represent you or negotiate your claim. If you want someone in your corner with the insurer, that is a licensed public adjuster or an attorney.
What policies usually cover and exclude
| Situation | Usually |
|---|---|
| Sudden discharge from a pipe or appliance | Covered on most policy forms |
| Flood from outside | Excluded, needs flood insurance |
| Sewer backup | Excluded unless added |
| Long term leak or poor upkeep | Often excluded |
| Mold | Usually excluded unless from a covered leak |
Steps that protect a claim
Stop the water
Your policy expects reasonable steps to prevent more damage.
Photograph first
Before you move or throw anything out.
Call your insurer promptly
Write down the claim number and the adjuster's name.
Keep damaged items
Or photos of them, until the adjuster says otherwise.
Keep receipts
For equipment, hotel stays and anything you buy.
Questions people ask
Will you deal with my insurance company?
We send documentation and the estimate. We do not negotiate your claim. A licensed public adjuster can.
Does homeowners insurance cover water damage?
Sudden discharge from plumbing or appliances is covered on most policy forms. Flood and sewer backup usually are not.
What is the average water damage claim?
From 2019 to 2023 the average water damage and freezing claim was $15,400.
Should I start drying before the adjuster comes?
Yes. Stopping more damage is expected. Photograph first.
What is a public adjuster?
A licensed person you hire to deal with your insurer on your claim.
Is flood covered by home insurance?
No. Flood needs NFIP or a private flood policy.
Is mold covered?
Usually only if it came from a covered sudden leak.
What if my claim is denied?
Ask for the reason in writing and the policy language it is based on.
Do you give a written estimate?
Yes, line by line.
Do you keep photos of what you remove?
Yes. Removed drywall, pad and insulation are photographed before they leave the house.