Home / Documenting an insurance claim

Documenting an insurance claim

Good documentation makes a water damage claim smoother. This is general guidance; your policy and insurer decide what's covered.

Do this right away

1. Stop the water and make the home safe.
2. Photograph and video the source, standing water and every damaged item before cleanup.
3. Keep damaged items until your insurer says you can discard them.
4. Call your insurer to report the claim and ask what they need.
5. Take reasonable steps to prevent more damage, like drying and moving belongings, and keep receipts.

Keep a simple log

Note dates, times, who you spoke with, claim numbers, and copies of estimates and invoices.