Vacate the property if it is not structurally sound.

Protect property from further damage by arranging for reasonable temporary repairs as soon as possible.  For example:

• if windows are broken, have them boarded up to protect your home and property against vandalism or weather damage,
• if the roof has an opening, have it tarped and covered,
• if water needs to be extracted, have a water restoration company extract surface water.  

Keep an accurate record of all temporary repair expenses (e.g. bills and/or material receipts) for possible reimbursement.   

Please do not make any permanent repairs until the insurance adjustor has had a chance to review the damage and you agree with the settlement.  We understand you want to rebuild as soon as possible but the adjustor will need time to inspect and submit a report for your review.

Document the damage by taking pictures, taking inventory of damage items, and keeping receipts.  Make a written list of what was damaged.  To be as accurate as possible, please include :

• manufacturer,
• brand name,
• serial numbers,
• date of purchase and
• replacement value.  

We recommend beginning this process by dividing your list into room location (e.g. living room, bedroom#1, bedroom#2, etc.).  If available, photographs, videotapes or personal property inventories are valuable resources during the itemization process.  There is an inventory form located on our website to help you.

Separate damage and undamaged property. In order to complete a full assessment of the loss, your claims adjustor will need to inspect all damaged property.  If possible, place damaged items in a secure area where they can be inspected.

Report your loss to your agent.