Documentation is a critical component of any homeowner’s insurance claim. Without a record of what’s happened and when, it can become increasingly challenging to secure the relief you deserve for your property damage.
Not only is proper documentation a key step when you initially file a water damage claim, but it also becomes paramount if you need to appeal a denied or underpaid claim. Read on for a few tips to keep in mind when documenting water damage for your insurance claim, and if you have any questions or need help during the claims process, just ask us at KK&P Law firm.
Tips for Documenting Water Damage in Colorado
Better records can lead to better outcomes for policyholders who need to file a water damage claim. This is not a “less is more” situation. More is more, so fill up those camera storage devices and save those receipts. Then, get to work on filing your claim.
- Take detailed photos and videos – Show and tell the damage you experienced through photos and video footage. Take close-up shots and get all the angles. Even better is if you have some before-and-afters to compare the damage (as a side note, consider this a reminder to update your home inventory) and go take pictures of every room in your home once a year. When documenting damage, don’t forget about personal belongings either, and make sure the photos are clear, in focus and have proper lighting to see the damage – blurry photos, begone!
- Document mitigation steps – You’ll also want to note what steps you took to mitigate the damage. Turn off the source of water to prevent further damage, remove standing water and take general precautions to protect your home and belongings.
- Save all receipts – Gather and save all paperwork related to the damage, repairs and other interactions with your insurance company. This includes receipts for any temporary repairs you made after the damage as well as estimates or invoices you received from contractors. You should also keep records of maintenance or inspections done on your home before the damage. This can help prove that the issue was sudden and not due to neglect. Utility bills showing any abnormal water usage that coincides with the damage might also prove useful to your case.
- Track communication with your insurance company – Time flies whether you’re having fun or not. To stay on top of the claims process, track everything, including a detailed record of all communication you have with your insurer so you can note dates and times. This can be particularly helpful if there are unreasonable delays in processing your claim.
Effectively documenting water damage is one of your best defenses against claim delays, denials and insufficient payouts. When in doubt, write it down, photograph it or call us with questions. Our team of attorneys is here to help you receive the rightful relief you deserve for your water damage.
