What to know if you need to file a claim
If you want to get started on clean up, please document your loss.
- Take pictures inside and out of damages and water mark lines.
- If the water entered the dwelling, you can remove wet drywall and carpeting. Cut one foot above the water mark on the wall of every room that was damaged.
- Save a 1ft by 1ft piece of each different type or style of carpet and padding in each room that you remove the carpeting.
- Do not throw anything away until the adjuster comes to inspect the damage.
- If you can safely do so, make temporary repairs to prevent further damage.
- If you choose to use a water restoration company, they can help extract standing water and set out large fans to dry out the damage.
- If you choose to use a remediation contractor, we advise not to sign open ended contracts. It is likely that all charges they include are not reimbursable under the flood policy.
- If you need an advance on your claim ask your adjuster.
- If you have flooded previously have your documents, receipts and photos to prove prior repairs.
- Start a list of structural and contents damage
- Contact your insurance agent to report the damage. Adjustors will contact you within 72 hours to schedule an onsite inspection
- Remove excess water by mopping and blotting or moving wet rugs out of the property to avoid more damage.
- Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
- Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
- Turn air conditioning on only if the AC did not suffer water damage for maximum drying in summer.
- Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
- Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
- Gather loose items from floors.
To discuss this please contact us.
Suzanne Brown Insurance Agency
A Houston, Texas Independent Insurance Agency with over 100 insurance carriers
www.SuzanneBrownAgency.com
281-558-2210