Do you know the right steps to take when your property undergoes a water damage in Idaho Falls? When water damage strikes, whether it's from a burst pipe, flooding, or a leaky appliance, the outcome can be overwhelming. Aside from all the repairs and cleanup, homeowners also have to deal with complex and often confusing insurance claims.
Each step requires collecting proper documentation, so when you go to file a claim, you're not sitting there with the missing paperwork. This missing documentation could slow down your time for compensation, or may even lead to the denial of the claim altogether.
If you've ever asked yourself how to properly file your own insurance claim for water damage, when to call the insurance company, and how a property restoration company in Idaho Falls can help you, this blog provides details about all.
Understanding Water Damage and Insurance Coverage
Before filing a claim, it is most important to understand how your insurance policy will cover your claims. Not all categories of water damage are handled the same way, and knowing the difference can save you time and stress later on.
The majority of homeowners’ insurance policies cover "sudden and accidental" water damage, such as damage due to a burst water pipe or appliance malfunction. However, they do not cover flooding resulting from negligence (i.e., slow leaks).
If you have property damage resulting from a recent incident, professionals specializing in water damage restoration in Idaho Falls can help evaluate and document the source of the damage.
Step 1: Act Quickly to Stop the Source of Water
As soon as you discover water damage, take immediate action to prevent the situation from getting worse. If a pipe bursts, shut off the main water valve. If the water is coming from the outside (e.g., heavy rains or flooding), act only if you feel that it is safe to do so, and evacuate if necessary.
By acting quickly, you will limit further damage and likely provide your insurance company with proof that you took all reasonable steps to minimize loss (as they typically like to see). If you contact experts for emergency water damage cleanup Idaho Falls, they will typically extract, dry, and dehumidify as quickly as possible, which helps limit further damage as well as costs that may be incurred.
Step 2: Document Everything
Proper documentation is one of the more important aspects of your insurance claim. Make a point of taking photos and video documentation of all affected areas, including furniture, flooring, walls, and personal items. Capture alternative angles of the damage, including both close-up documentation and general views.
Document all damaged items, along with descriptions and your best estimate of their value and the date they were purchased. Keep documentation and receipts for any repairs or services needed as part of your emergency work. All of this documentation can assist you in proving the nature of your loss and can get your claims processed quickly.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company Right Away
Once you have contained the water and documented the damage, you should contact your insurance company right away. Most insurance companies will require you to contact them as soon as possible after discovering the water damage, typically 24 to 48 hours after.
Clearly explain what exactly happened, the date and time, and what you have done so far to contain the damage. The insurance company will assign an adjuster who will review your claim. Having clear documentation and input from a water damage restoration company in Idaho Falls will support your claim and ensure that your experience with your insurance company is hassle-free.
Step 4: Read Over Your Policy and Find Out What You Are Covered For
Before you get any further with the claim, read through your homeowners’ policy and look for what is covered for water damage, how much your deductible is, and any exclusions.If it is unclear or there is wording that you don't understand, ask your insurance agent about it.
Some policies require other documentation, such as professional estimates to repair the damages or proof of maintenance as well. Reading over your policy will prepare you for the claims process and your repairs so that you will not have any surprises when they start processing your claim.
Step 5: Meet With the Insurance Adjuster
The insurance company will send over an adjuster who will evaluate the damage and verify your claim. The insurance adjuster is going to want to see everything that has been affected, so it will be a good idea to be present when they arrive to assess the claim. Share your photos, list of items, and restoration contractors' report with the adjuster.
If you have already started processes for safety reasons, showing a before-and-after photo can illustrate the severity of the damage. It may be helpful to have a reputable contractor explain the technical component of the repairs needed and document the estimates for the adjuster.
Step 6: Obtain Estimates
Insurance adjusters routinely request at least one estimate to review for the cost of repairs. It is best to use a reliable, locally owned company that specializes in water damage repairs.A certified company providing water damage services in Idaho Falls will document the details of repairs needed, which will include drying, mold remediation, and possible repairs to the structure's framing.
The policyholder will know the costs prior to repairs beginning. Having these detailed pricing structures not only supports your claim but also assures that appropriate measures are being taken to repair your damages.
Step 7: Prevent Additional Damages
While you wait for the claim process, you are responsible for preventing additional damages. If you have damage and are waiting for insurance to process your claim, you are responsible for taking measures to prevent further damage.
Temporary repairs like boarding up broken windows, ripping out wet carpet, and placing a tarp over a compromised roof are common practices and should be done. Companies that specialize in water damage repair in Idaho Falls can provide initial mitigation to keep your property safe and secure during the insurance claims process.
Step 8: Document All Communication
It is important to document every phone call, email, and message that you have with the insurance company. Keep a log that lists the names of whom you've spoken to, the date and time of communication, and the main points of the discussion.
Taking notes during the claim and saving the emails and logs will often prevent misunderstandings, delays, and disputes later on. Documenting everything keeps you organized and ensures transparency. This will also facilitate your claim if there are complications later in the process.
Step 9: Authorizing Repairs and Restoration Work
After your claim is approved and you have discussed payment with the insurance company, you may authorize all of the restoration work. If you hire a trusted and reputable company to perform the water damage restoration in Idaho Falls, you can trust that they will do the whole job correctly the first time.
The restoration professionals will repair any visible damage, along with invasive hidden issues such as mold, structural weakness, and bad smells. It is their job to restore your property to pre-loss condition and follow the codes from both the insurance and any regulations.
Step 10: Finalizing Project Completion and Closing Your Claim
After the repairs/restoration work is done, it is recommended that you go through a final walk-through of your property. Ensure every repair and restoration is completed to your satisfaction. Lastly, make sure that you take final pictures and ask the contractor for completion documents.
The next step is to submit any remaining paperwork to your insurance carrier and make sure that your claim is closed. If there are any discrepancies or issues, reach out to your insurance claim adjuster right away.
About Rainbow Restoration of Idaho Falls
Rainbow Restoration of Idaho Falls is an expert in full-service restoration and cleanup services. Our certified technicians specialize in water damage restoration near me and work to provide 24/7 emergency response for homes and businesses experiencing damage from leaks, floods, and plumbing failures.
From initial consultation to the completion of your restoration project, our team will work with your insurance carrier to expedite your claims process and get you back to normal as quickly as possible. Contact us today to schedule an on-site assessment.
