Any homeowner in a city like St. Petersburg, Florida faces serious challenges from water damage, due to storms and plumbing accidents. Moving fast and doing the right things can help you avoid even bigger problems after a burst pipe, roof leak or storm surge. Although your claim can look complicated, understanding the proper process can support your claim being successful.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Water Damage Insurance Claim
Assess and Document the Water Damage
Once you can go into your home, closely examine all the parts that were affected by flood water. Your phone or camera can be used to take pictures and videos from different sides. Take photos of any damage to walls, ceilings, flooring and your belongings. If it’s safe to do so, prepare a list of items detailed with their approximate value. You will need this document when you make your claim and interface with the adjuster.
Mitigate Further Damage Immediately
Most homeowners’ insurance policies include a rule that requires homeowners to stop further damage from happening. This means you can turn off the water main, gather leaking water in buckets, pull up wet rugs or telephone for emergency help to remove water from your home. Save all claims documents for expenses on temporary upgrades or repairs, as your insurer will often compensate you if you win the claim.
Review the Terms of Your Insurance Policy
Homeowners’ policies can be very different and the way water damage is addressed can depend on the reason it happened. Read the details of your policy to learn which damages are covered, your deductible and which types of damage you will not be paid for (flooding, in this case). Having knowledge of these things helps you create a plan that avoids delays.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
Reach out to your insurer as soon as possible after discovering water damage. Most insurance companies allow you to initiate a claim online or by calling their claims department. When reporting the incident, be ready to provide-
- Your policy number
- The date and source of the water damage
- A detailed description of the damage
- Steps you’ve taken to prevent further issues
Once your claim is submitted, you’ll be assigned a claim number and an insurance adjuster.
Cooperate with the Insurance Adjuster
An adjuster from your insurance company will usually see your property and make sure the claim is accurate. Come along during the visit so you can show insurers the damage and bring your proof. It is appropriate to ask, seek more information and list all the concerns you find. Let them know if you think something isn’t being addressed properly.
Final Thoughts
You can handle water damage claims in St. Petersburg, FL, much more easily by following a well-planned procedure. Taking quick action to tell your adjuster about the damages and cooperate can guarantee you get a fair value. Keep the following in mind: promptly complete the process, stay tidy and ask your insurer for help whenever you can.
This article was written by Kelly-Ann Jenkins of Jenkins Law P.L. Kelly-Ann is a St Petersburg personal injury attorney with expertise in helping clients through insurance claims and personal injury matters. The content provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. If you are dealing with a water damage claim or other legal issue, consult a qualified attorney to understand your rights and obligations.
+ There are no comments
Add yours