How to Deal with a Devastating Flood or Water Damage Claim

A water damage claim to your home whether caused by an actual flood or by escape of water from pipework or equipment is one of the most devastating things that can happen to you.

Like all damage, the immediate effects of water damage can be repaired but the very nature of the type of damage means that such repairs cannot be carried out as quickly. The main reason for this being the need to dry out the fabric of the building before repairs can proceed.

When there is water ingress to any property, regardless of the cause, you need to immediately turn off the utilities, especially the electricity supply. If illumination is necessary for investigation then use a torch but do not use a naked flame.

It is important that you contact your Insurer as soon as possible. The reason being not just for the purpose of registering the water damage claim but they are able to appoint specialist companies who can assist with the clean up and supply such equipment as dehumidifiers which will help with the drying process. Swift attention at this stage can prevent longer term damage to the fabric of the building.

In the turmoil following water damage and once the flood has subsided there is the temptation to start cleaning up as quickly as possible, which is no bad thing but if at all possible take as many photographs of the damage as you can and if at all possible start listing the damaged items. (In this day of smart phones, they can be very useful for both the above suggestions). This exercise will pay immense dividends when it comes to submitting your water damage claim to your Insurer.

Repairing and cleaning up after a flood is best dealt with by specialist companies as they understand the problems associated with such damage and the best way to deal with the repairs. It is often difficult for victims of a water damage claim to appreciate how long it may take to dry a building out before it can become habitable. Commencing restoration work before the building has given up all the moisture absorbed will mean problems at a later date so it is vital that the correct time scale if followed.

All good Household Policies provide for alternative accommodation whilst the property is not habitable and as the possible costs incurred for temporary housing could be considerable it is well worth ensuring that the policy limits provided by your existing Insurer are adequate.

It is more than likely that your Insurer will appoint a Loss Adjuster to deal with the water damage claim on their behalf. Their job is to gather information about the claim including details of the items for which you are claiming. In order to authorise payment of the water damage claim, they will require evidence of value of the items claimed and your assistance and cooperation in supplying the information required will assist in an early settlement of the claim.

Lastly, don’t be shy in asking your Insurer or Insurance Broker for their help and guidance at any stage of the water damage claim, particularly if you feel that it may not be progressing as quickly as you would like.