How We Help With Water Damage Insurance Claims
We are a restoration company, not an insurance company or a public adjuster. We cannot approve or promise coverage. What we can do is take the mystery out of the process: document the damage carefully, keep organized records of the work and communicate with your adjuster in the technical language they expect.
Good documentation matters because insurers evaluate claims on evidence. Photos, moisture readings, equipment logs and itemized work records show what was damaged, how it was addressed and why the work was necessary.
Step-by-Step: What to Do After Water Damage
- Make the property safe.Stop the water source if you can and avoid electrical hazards.
- Call us and your insurer.Report the loss to your carrier and call (425) 358-4598 so mitigation starts right away. Policies typically require you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage.
- Document before cleanup.Take photos and video of the water, affected rooms and belongings. Note the date and time you discovered the damage.
- Save damaged items.Keep damaged materials or photograph them before disposal until your adjuster has had a chance to review.
- Keep records and receipts.Save invoices for plumbers, restoration and temporary housing or meals if your policy covers additional living expenses.
- Stay in contact with your adjuster.Share our documentation and ask questions. We can talk to your adjuster directly with your permission.
What Water Damage Is Usually Covered?
Coverage varies by carrier and policy, but in general:
| Cause of loss | Typically… |
|---|---|
| Burst pipe, failed supply line, water heater failure | Often covered as sudden and accidental |
| Appliance leak (washer, dishwasher, ice maker) | Often covered when sudden |
| Storm damage to roof allowing rain in | Often covered if the roof was opened by a covered event |
| Sewer or drain backup | Often excluded unless you have a water backup endorsement |
| Flood (rising water, surface water) | Usually excluded; requires separate flood insurance |
| Long-term leaks, seepage and neglected maintenance | Often excluded |
This is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Read your policy and speak with your agent or adjuster about your specific coverage.
The Documentation We Provide
- Photos and video of the loss on arrival, during work and at completion
- Moisture readings and moisture maps showing where water traveled
- Daily drying logs with equipment placement and readings
- Itemized scope of work and invoices
- Notes on water category and reasons materials were removed
- Contents inventory where applicable
Common Claim Pitfalls to Avoid
- Waiting to start mitigation. Delay can lead insurers to argue the damage worsened due to neglect.
- Throwing items away too soon. Photograph and, where possible, keep them until the adjuster reviews.
- Not reporting the loss promptly. Policies often require timely notice.
- Signing a work authorization you do not understand. Ask us to explain anything before you sign.
- Assuming denial is final. Ask your insurer to explain in writing and consider consulting a public adjuster if you disagree.
Restoration Services That Often Support Claims
Depending on your loss, we may provide emergency water damage restoration, water extraction, structural drying, fire and smoke restoration and mold remediation. Use our cost calculator for a planning estimate.
Insurance Claim FAQ
Will you guarantee my insurance claim is approved?
No. Only your insurance company decides coverage. We document the loss thoroughly so your claim is supported by accurate facts.
Should I call my insurance company or a restoration company first?
Both, quickly. Emergency mitigation should not wait for claim approval, since policies generally require you to prevent further damage. Call your carrier to report the loss and call us to start the work.
Is flood damage covered by homeowners insurance?
Standard homeowners policies commonly exclude rising water and surface flooding, which are typically covered by separate flood insurance. Sudden plumbing and appliance leaks are treated differently. Check your policy.
Is sewer backup covered?
Often only with a water backup endorsement. Ask your agent whether your policy includes it.
Will my premiums go up if I file?
That depends on your carrier and claim history. It is worth asking your agent before filing a small claim, but do not delay mitigation of an active loss.
Can I choose my own restoration company?
In general, yes. You have the right to choose the contractor who performs work on your home. Your insurer may suggest a vendor, but you are not typically required to use it. Confirm with your policy.