Water damage to your home or business is not fun. Everything from plumbing leaks to burst pipes, storm damage and sewage backups can compromise your property because of water. If your home or business suffers water damage, these are the top 5 things you can immediately do to protect your right to fair and just compensation.
- Document Absolutely Everything - You must take pictures and videos of all the damage, no matter how major or minor. This type of evidence is essential in pursuing your claim with your insurance company. Take pictures and video before moving anything or cleaning up. Keep any damaged personal property as well as any broken equipment that led to the water damage. If the damage was caused by someone else (a neighbor, a plumber, etc.), make sure to document their name and contact information so your insurance company can reach out.
- Inform Your Insurance Company - It’s really important that you call your insurance company as soon as possible. Make sure you have your insurance policy and answer their questions completely. However, try to avoid using the word “flood” as most general policies do not cover flood damage. Keep a detailed record of the conversation and next steps.
- Prevent Additional Damage - It’s important to take the necessary steps to protect your home or business and prevent more damage from occurring. Any action you take will be considered emergency repairs and will not affect your ability to pursue fair compensation from your insurance carrier. Your insurance company will not provide more compensation for damage that occurs after the initial claim, so you need to do whatever is necessary to prevent further damage.
- File an Insurance Claim - Once you call the insurance company and provide them with the information needed, they will send out an insurance adjuster with whom you’ll file an official claim. This written documentation of your damage should include the location of the damage, a list of the damaged items, receipts from the initial cleanup costs and estimates for remediation services.
- Contact an Attorney - Unfortunately, your insurance company may not always uphold the coverage you are promised. Due to the large nature of loss associated with many commercial and personal property insurance claims, insurance companies are known for dragging their feet when it comes to payment. Far too often insurance companies deny claims or underpay and that’s why you will want an experienced insurance attorney standing by you.
If you have sustained damage and losses in your home or business following water damage, or are currently involved in a claim that is being denied, underpaid or delayed, contact the Acle Law Firm today at 305-447-4667 or visit aclelaw.com for a free consultation.