Home Owner Documentation for Insurance Claims
The process of making an insurance claim after a flood or tree damage requires careful consideration and documentation. The first step is to call your insurance company and report the claim. After that, it's important to hire a mitigation company like Northeast Houston Renovation to begin the demolition and dry-out process. The goal of this process is to dry all surfaces and structures that were damaged by water or secure load-bearing structures if a tree has fallen on the house.
However, before rushing to the insurance company, there are three key things you need to keep in mind. Firstly, taking as many pictures as possible is critical in getting all of your damage covered. It's important to take both close-up shots and wider images to provide context. Sometimes people take pictures that are too close, but this doesn't show the whole room and it can be difficult for the insurance company to visualize the damage.
Secondly, taking videos of the damage is equally important. This includes water flow, a tree hanging on the roof, and general roof damage. Videos help ensure that the insurance company fully covers the damage without the need to prove it to the adjuster.
Thirdly, it's crucial to keep a log with dates and times of what has been done and who has been contacted. The insurance company will not compensate you for your time and work, only the mitigation company. In some cases, the insurance company will pay, but you will need to submit an invoice and have a way to substantiate your costs.
In conclusion, taking pictures, videos, and keeping a log of events can make the insurance approval process much smoother. Protecting your belongings is important, but remember to strike a balance with documentation and recording of events. Have you had an insurance claim before? Do you wish you had done things differently? Remember these tips and have a stress-free insurance claim process.
George. All the best!