By Arianna 
Water damage can occur at any time, whether from a burst pipe, a leaking roof, or a natural disaster like a flood. When water damages your property, the first priority is to stop the flow and mitigate further damage. However, once the immediate issues are handled, one of the most important steps is documenting the damage properly for insurance purposes. Accurate documentation ensures that you can receive the compensation you’re entitled to for repairs and replacements. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to document water damage for insurance purposes.
1. Ensure Safety First
Before you start documenting the damage, make sure it’s safe to do so. If the water has affected electrical wiring or created structural issues, take precautions. If necessary, call a professional to assess and mitigate any hazards. It’s best to contact a water remediation company immediately to handle any immediate cleanup or remediation services to prevent mold growth and further damage.
2. Stop the Source of Water
Next, stop the source of the water if possible. For example, if a pipe has burst, shut off the water supply to prevent further flooding. If the water is due to rain or a storm, use temporary measures like sandbags or tarps to minimize the incoming water. The insurance company may ask whether any action was taken to prevent further damage, so it’s crucial to be able to show that you tried to stop the water at its source.
3. Take Detailed Photos and Videos
Once it’s safe, begin taking photos and videos of the affected areas. It’s essential to document every aspect of the damage for insurance purposes. Here’s what to focus on:
- Wide-angle shots: Capture the whole room or area affected by the water.
- Close-ups: Take close-up shots of specific items that were damaged, such as furniture, appliances, and flooring.
- Water levels: If the water was high, capture the water line to show the extent of the flooding.
- Damaged materials: Show details of damaged walls, ceilings, floors, and any structural damage.
Videos can also be helpful in showing the scale of the damage and the condition of the property. Be sure to document any areas that might seem less obvious, such as the attic or basement, which could have water damage that isn’t immediately visible.
4. List All Damaged Property
Create a comprehensive inventory of all the items damaged by the water. This list should include furniture, electronics, appliances, personal items, and building materials. Include the following information:
- A description of the item
- The brand or model (for valuable items like electronics)
- The estimated value of the item before the damage
- Receipts or proof of purchase if available
This inventory will help the insurance adjuster assess the extent of the damage and determine the compensation for the loss.
5. Save Receipts and Invoices for Remediation Services
If you have already hired a water remediation company or other professionals to mitigate the damage, keep all receipts and invoices. These costs can sometimes be covered under your insurance policy, so having detailed records will help speed up the claims process.
6. Document Conversations with the Insurance Company
From the moment you contact your insurance company, make sure to document every conversation. Write down the names of the representatives you speak with, the date and time of each call, and a summary of what was discussed. If they require additional information or specific actions on your part, make sure to follow up promptly.
7. Avoid Throwing Away Damaged Items Prematurely
While it might be tempting to start cleaning up and discarding damaged items, avoid throwing things away until the insurance adjuster has had a chance to assess the damage. Even if something seems completely destroyed, the adjuster might need to see it firsthand. If the items need to be discarded for safety reasons, take photos first to document the condition.
8. Work with a Water Remediation Company
A reputable water remediation company can help document the extent of the damage. These professionals can assess the water damage, identify hidden issues like mold growth, and provide detailed reports that will be useful when filing your insurance claim. Their expertise in the area can also help you avoid overlooking any hidden damage, which might otherwise affect the amount of compensation you receive.
Conclusion
Documenting water damage for insurance purposes is a critical step in ensuring that you receive adequate compensation for the repairs and replacements needed. By taking detailed photos and videos, making a list of damaged items, and working with a professional water remediation company, you can create a thorough record that will support your insurance claim. The more comprehensive your documentation, the easier it will be for your insurer to assess the damage and settle your claim quickly and fairly.