Water damage is a major problem that many homeowners face. It can come from leaking pipes, flooding, or a damaged roof. While insurance can help cover the costs, many homeowners make mistakes when filing their water damage claims. These mistakes can delay the process, reduce payouts, or even lead to claim denials. Knowing these common mistakes can help you avoid them and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
If you live in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, or Maryland, A H Neaman Company can help. We are experienced public adjusters who know how to handle water damage claims and will work to ensure you get the best possible outcome.
Not Documenting the Damage Properly
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is failing to document the damage thoroughly. Without solid proof of the damage, your insurance company may not fully understand the extent of the problem. This could lead to a lower payout or even a denied claim.
When water damage occurs, take detailed photos and videos of everything, from soaked furniture to damaged walls and floors. Make sure you capture both the immediate damage and any ongoing issues, such as mold growth. If you aren’t sure what to document, a public adjuster can guide you in properly documenting the damage.
Waiting Too Long to File a Claim
Many homeowners wait too long to file their claims, not realizing that most insurance policies have strict time limits for reporting damage. The longer you wait, the more likely the insurance company will deny your claim or reduce your payout.
Water damage spreads quickly. Whether it’s from a burst pipe or a leaking roof, the damage can worsen if you delay. It’s important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the damage happens. A public adjuster can help you understand the deadlines in your policy and make sure you don’t miss any critical timelines.
Making Repairs Before Contacting the Insurance Company
Homeowners often want to repair the damage right away to prevent further issues like mold growth. However, fixing the damage before the insurance company inspects it can hurt your claim.
Insurance companies want to assess the damage before you start making repairs. If you do repairs before they’ve had a chance to inspect, they may not cover the cost of those repairs. To avoid this, make sure you notify your insurance provider and wait for an adjuster to assess the damage before you take any repair actions.
Not Understanding Your Insurance Policy
Many homeowners don’t fully understand what their insurance policy covers, which can lead to confusion later. Some water damage, such as flooding, may not be covered under your regular homeowner’s insurance.
It’s important to understand what is included and excluded in your policy. If you’re unsure, take time to review it carefully. A public adjuster can help you understand your policy and what it covers. We’ll also identify any gaps in your coverage, so you can make sure you’re properly protected.
Failing to Mitigate Further Damage
After the initial damage occurs, most policies require homeowners to take steps to prevent further damage. This is known as the duty to mitigate damage. If you don’t act to minimize the damage, your insurance company may reduce the amount of money they pay out or deny your claim entirely.
Mitigating damage can include shutting off the water supply, removing standing water, or calling a professional to help with cleanup. Keep records of your actions and take photos of what you’ve done. This will help strengthen your claim.
Not Hiring a Public Adjuster
Many homeowners try to handle their water damage claim without professional help. This can be a mistake. Insurance companies have adjusters who work for them, not for you. They may offer you less money than you deserve to settle your claim quickly.
A public adjuster works on your behalf to ensure you get the maximum payout possible. We know how to navigate the claims process, document the damage, and negotiate with the insurance company. By hiring a public adjuster, you can increase your chances of getting the full compensation you need.
Not Keeping Records of Damaged Items
Insurance companies often require proof of ownership and the value of your damaged items. Many homeowners forget to keep receipts or records for things like furniture, electronics, or personal belongings that are damaged.
Make sure you keep receipts, photos, or other documentation for valuable items in your home. If you don’t have proof, your claim may be underpaid. A public adjuster can help you make sure you’ve gathered all the necessary documents to support your claim.
Accepting the First Offer Without Negotiating
Insurance companies often make an initial offer that is lower than what homeowners are entitled to. If you accept the first offer, you may not get the full compensation needed to repair the damage.
A public adjuster can help you evaluate the initial offer and decide if it’s fair. If the offer is too low, we can negotiate with the insurance company to get you a better settlement. Having an expert on your side can make a big difference in the outcome of your claim.
Call A H Neaman Company for Help with Your Water Damage Claim
Filing a water damage claim can be stressful, but with the right support, you can avoid common mistakes and ensure that you get the compensation you deserve. A H Neaman Company is a public adjuster serving Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Maryland. We have the experience to handle water damage claims and will work with your insurance company to make sure you get a fair settlement.
If your home has suffered water damage, don’t hesitate to reach out to A H Neaman Company. We’ll help you document the damage, file your claim, and negotiate with your insurer. Call us today and let us help you get back on track.
