Insurance guide
Water damage insurance claim mistakes to avoid
Carriers process thousands of Valley water claims after monsoons and pipe failures. These mistakes show up repeatedly in denied or reduced payouts — avoid them from hour one.
Waiting for the adjuster before drying
This is the costliest error. Mold and secondary damage accrue daily. Policies require mitigation; adjusters expect drying to already be underway at first inspection.
Throwing away damaged items too soon
Document contents before disposal. For large losses, your policy may include contents coverage — photos, brand, approximate age, and replacement cost estimates support reimbursement.
Using non-industry estimates
Handwritten quotes and non-Xactimate estimates slow approval. Major carriers price against Xactimate line items — your restoration company should speak that language.
Misstating the cause
Never guess on a recorded statement. 'I think the pipe was old' can become 'gradual leak' in the carrier's notes. Stick to facts: when you discovered it, what failed, what a plumber said.
Accepting a closed claim too early
Hidden moisture in walls often appears only after baseboard removal. Reserve the right to supplement before signing final releases.
Common questions
- Should I hire a public adjuster?
- On large or disputed losses, a licensed public adjuster can advocate for you for a percentage of the settlement. On straightforward sudden pipe bursts with a reputable restoration partner, it's often unnecessary.
We document everything and guide your claim
Describe what happened. FastDry dispatches a vetted crew, captures the loss, and coordinates with your adjuster — free for homeowners.
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