Key Takeaways:
- Submitting a water damage claim can take time and effort.
- First, you’ll need to contact your insurance company to provide them with details about the water damage that has occurred.
- The next step is to document the damage using photos or videos.
- Finally, you’ll need to submit all of this information to your insurance company and follow up frequently until your claim is approved and payment is sent.
- Leak Pros of Georgia offers restoration services to customers in Atlanta, Duluth, Decatur, and the surrounding areas.
Home insurance can be a lifesaver when something unexpected happens. But what do you do when water damage strikes? Like most people, you probably don’t know where to start.
Don’t worry; Leak Pros of Georgia is here to help. Below, we’ll outline the steps you need to take to file a water damage claim. Remember that every situation is unique, so these instructions might not apply to your case. If that’s the case, contact your insurance company for more information.
Documents You Need for the Water Damage Claim Process
1. Proof of Ownership
It can be a deed, title, or bill of sale for your property.
2. Insurance Policy
It is your homeowner, renter, or business policy.
3. Proof of Loss
It can be a police report, insurance company report, or photographic evidence of the damage.
4. Evidence for Cost of Repairs
It includes receipts for payments against the materials and labor, permits, and licenses obtained for the repair work.
How to Determine the Cause of Water Damage When Filing a Claim
When filing a water damage claim, the important thing is to determine the cause of the damage. It will help your insurance company understand what happened and why and help them process your claim more quickly and efficiently.
There are a few things you can look for to help you identify the source of the water damage.
- Look for any water stains on ceilings, walls, or floors.
- Check for any standing water or puddles.
- Notice any unusual smells, such as mold or mildew.
- See if any of your electronics or appliances are wet or damaged.
- Check the insulation in your attic and basement for signs of water damage.
If you can’t identify the source of the water damage, don’t worry – your insurance company will be able to help you out. They have experts who can help determine where the water came from and how it was caused.
Also, read our blog on smart tips to avoid plumbing disasters.
Estimating the Cost of Water Damage Repairs
When estimating the cost of water damage repairs, it’s important to remember that the final bill can vary greatly depending on the extent of the damage, the materials needed for repairs, and the restoration contractor you choose.
That said, here are some ballpark figures to give you an idea of what you can expect. A primary repair job that includes fixing a leaky faucet or replacing a water-damaged ceiling can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000. More extensive repairs, such as fixing a broken pipe or repairing mold damage, can run anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000.
Remember that these are just estimates, and you should always get quotes from several restoration contractors before hiring one.
Submitting Your Water Damage Claim Step by Step
Submitting a water damage claim can take time and effort. First, you’ll need to contact your insurance company to provide them with details about the water damage that has occurred. You’ll need your policy number, the date of the incident, and any additional information that may be relevant.
The next step is to document the damage using photos or videos. It will help your insurance company better assess the cost of repairs. Ensure you are thorough with these photos—you don’t want to miss anything!
Finally, you’ll need to submit all of this information to your insurance company and follow up frequently until your claim is approved and payment is sent. In some cases, they may even require an inspection of the property. Be sure to communicate with your insurer throughout this process to get back on track as soon as possible.
Understanding the Insurance Adjuster’s Role in the Claim Process
An insurance adjuster will assess your property damage, review your claim and negotiate with you on a settlement for the repairs. They will usually suggest a fair market value appropriate for the damage and repair costs. However, if you disagree with the adjuster’s offer, you can negotiate with them for a higher amount. You must present proof to support your argument when contesting the adjuster’s estimate. You may need to get an independent assessment of the damage and submit it to the adjuster for review.
Once both parties agree on a settlement amount, the adjuster will send you paperwork to sign off on. This paperwork will detail the agreement’s details and can be used to demand payment from the other party’s insurance company.
Steps to Take After a Successful Water Damage Claim
Now that you’ve successfully filed a water damage claim, it’s time to restore your property. It means contacting your insurance company’s preferred contractor and getting a few estimates from other qualified restoration contractors to compare costs.
Once you have the scope of work and cost outlined in each estimate, review their details carefully. Pay particular attention to any extra charges the restoration contractor may have added, like hazardous materials removal or disposal fees.
Ensure that the contract outlines precisely what is covered in the claim and that all forms are filled out accurately. Keep detailed records of interactions with your insurance provider or restoration contractor to ensure every penny gets paid promptly.
Finally, remember safety! Be sure everyone working on the project is adequately licensed and trained in following safety protocols specific to water damage repair jobs.
Related: Water damage restoration guidelines.
Professional Help With the Water Damage Claim Process in Atlanta, GA
If you have water infiltration at your home in Atlanta, GA, whether it’s a small or large-scale event, contact Leak Pros of Georgia. We can ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible and that you receive the maximum benefit from your policy. Check out our services to select the suitable restoration option for your needs – you can contact us anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!
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