Insurance Claim Tips

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When a loss occurs you deserve a fast, full settlement of your claim, so you can focus on your family, your business and your life.

Remove/dry as much water as possible by using mops, towels and/or fans.
Retain the services of a professional and licensed mitigation company, if the water damage is significant and cannot be managed by yourself.
Dry personal property affected by water to mitigate further water damage.
Remove personal property from rooms or areas affected by the water and store in other areas not affected by the water; be sure the personal property is dry before storing in non-affected areas.
Take numerous photos and videos of all water affected and damages areas,including photos and videos of water damages personal property.
Make a list of all water damaged personal property items.

Let the water stand for more than a couple of hours.
Cut drywall or tear out damaged building materials before the water damage is photographed and properly documented.
Use your household vacuum to remove water.
Make any repairs before consulting your public adjuster.
Use unlicensed and/or uninsured contractors to mitigate the damages.

Retain the services of a professional and licensed mitigation company, if the fire damage is significant and cannot be managed by yourself.
Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
Blow, brush or vacuum loose soot particles from upholstery, drapes and carpets.
Clean and protect chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances with light coating of Vaseline or oil.
Change HVAC filter.
Take photographs and videos of all damaged areas and document any lost items.

Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting a professional.
Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting a professional.
Attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to the fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet— wiring may be wet or damaged.
Make any repairs before consulting your public adjuster.
Use unlicensed and/or uninsured contractors to mitigate the damages.

Utilize photo and video to document the condition of the property prior to and during the construction, whether it be construction on your property or neighboring property. (Edit to show prior and after)
Secure liability insurance information (Certificate of Insurance) for contractors performing construction work and services on your property.
Save any debris that fell onto the property and store in a safe place.
Block off dangerous areas to mitigate risk to human life.
Secure the cause of the actual loss, i.e. valves, pipes, etc.

Attempt to remove concrete, paint, or cosmetic stains.
Cover up paint, cosmetic stains, or concrete until documented.
Access damaged areas that may present life threatening situations until inspected by an engineer and/or official.
Discard debris, construction materials, and/or any other evidence that fell on the property from nearby construction.
Discard damage debris until it is documented.
Make any repairs before consulting your public adjuster.
Use unlicensed and/or uninsured claims professionals to mitigate the damages.

Stock your home with emergency supplies including nonperishable food and water,prescription medications, and a first
aid kit.
Turn off the electricity if you see sparks or frayed wires until an electrician has inspected your system for safety.
Turn off the main water valve if pipes are damaged.
Check with local authorities before using any water; the water could be contaminated and may need to be boiled before use.
Prevent mold by removing wet contents immediately but only after documenting the water damage with photos and videos.
Keep a copy of your insurance policy handy.
Take photographs and videos of all damages areas and document any lost items.