When water damage occurs in your home or business, the immediate reaction is usually to repair it as soon as possible. However, rushing to make permanent repairs before notifying your insurance company can work against you. Evidence of the initial damage is essential for your claim to be accepted and covered correctly.
At The Claim Partner, we have seen many homeowners lose part of their compensation because they repaired too soon without documenting the damage. That’s why we explain here what to do and what not to do if you face this type of situation.
The first thing you should do when faced with water damage
1. Document absolutely everything
Before moving or repairing anything, take photographs and videos of the affected area: ceilings, walls, floors, damaged furniture, and belongings. Include wide shots as well as close-ups of details. Keep invoices, receipts, and any evidence that shows the actual state of the damage.
2. Mitigate temporary damage
Most policies require the owner to take reasonable steps to prevent the situation from worsening. That means:
- Stop the source of water if it is safe to do so (turn off a valve, cut off electricity if there is a risk).
- Remove excess water with towels or buckets.
- Place tarps or plastic sheeting to protect the area from further leaks.
Important: these actions should be temporary and reversible. Do not make permanent repairs until an adjuster has inspected the damage.
3. Notify the insurance company promptly
Notify your insurance company of what has happened within the time frame specified in your policy (often 24-72 hours). Late reporting may result in your claim being rejected.
4. Contact an independent professional
Insurance adjusters represent the company, not you. An independent adjuster or public adjuster, such as our team at The Claim Partner, will look out for your interests, ensuring that the damage is recorded correctly and that your claim is not underestimated.
What you should not do
- Do not make permanent repairs before the inspection. Painting, replacing floors, changing roofs, or throwing away damaged materials can remove crucial evidence.
- Do not discard damaged items without documenting them. Keep debris from pipes, tiles, carpets, or other items until the assessment has been made.
- Do not alter the area before taking photographs. Even if you want to clean up, do so after you have made a complete visual record.
- Do not delay the report. Waiting weeks can give the insurance company an argument to deny your claim, alleging lack of maintenance or negligence.
Risks of repairing prematurely
- Loss of evidence to support the claim.
- Possible reduction in the amount of compensation.
- Total denial of the claim for breach of policy conditions.
- Out-of-pocket expenses that could have been covered.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I repair anything before the adjuster arrives?
Yes, but only temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Never replace or repair anything permanently before the official inspection. - What emergency repairs are allowed?
Covering with a tarp, drying the area, removing wet items, or shutting off the water source. All repairs must be well documented before and after they are made. - What if I have already repaired part of the damage?
You must inform your insurer and provide as much evidence as possible: photos of the “before” situation, invoices for the repairs, and the remains of the damaged materials if you have kept them. - Why should I keep the damaged materials?
Because they serve as physical evidence of the original damage. Many insurance companies require to be able to verify this directly. - How long do I have to report water damage?
It depends on the policy, but it is advisable to notify them as soon as it occurs, within the first 24 to 72 hours.
The first impulse after water damage is to repair, but the smartest thing to do is to document and file a claim first. A solid claim is built on clear evidence and proper support.
At The Claim Partner, we work to ensure that you don’t lose out on what you are entitled to by acting too quickly. Our team guides you every step of the way, ensuring that your claim is fair and complete.