When water damage affects your commercial property, navigating the insurance claims process can feel overwhelming. At Excel Adjusters, we specialize in representing commercial property owners in water damage insurance claims, helping you secure a fair and reasonable settlement for necessary repairs and business recovery. As experienced public adjusters, we work exclusively for you—not the insurance company—to ensure your interests are prioritized throughout the claims process.
What is Considered Water Damage?
Water damage can occur in various forms, from sudden leaks and burst pipes to HVAC malfunctions and toilet overflows. Each situation requires a solid understanding of property insurance to determine coverage eligibility and manage complex insurance requirements. Here are common types of commercial water damage that are generally covered under commercial insurance policies:
- Sudden and Accidental Leaks: Unexpected leaks that occur within a brief period (usually less than two weeks)
- Burst Pipes: Sudden pipe ruptures that result in water damage
- HVAC Leaks: Rapid, accidental HVAC system leaks
- Roof and Wind-Driven Rain Damage: Damage due to severe weather conditions like storms or hail
- Sewer Backups and Slab Leaks: These may be covered under specific circumstances, though coverage varies by policy
Natural causes like flooding are generally not considered water damage under standard commercial water damage claims. Flood insurance claims require a separate flood insurance policy, often available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers.
Flood Damage vs. Water Damage in Commercial Properties
Flood damage is classified differently from water damage and is not usually covered in standard business owner policies. Flood damage refers to the accumulation of surface water covering normally dry land, while water damage originates from internal sources before water touches the ground. Understanding these distinctions can help you determine the right coverage and avoid denials for flood damage claims.
Why Work with Excel Adjusters for Commercial Water Damage
At Excel Adjusters, our team of licensed public adjusters brings extensive knowledge of water damage insurance claims and commercial property insurance policies, advocating solely for your interests. Here’s how we support you:
- Securing a Fair and Reasonable Settlement: We thoroughly assess your water damage claim and advocate on your behalf to help you receive a fair payout for the necessary repairs and replacements outlined in your policy.
- Managing the Claims Process: From filing your claim to negotiating with the insurance adjuster, we handle every step, including gathering required documentation and coordinating directly with insurance company adjusters on your behalf.
- Handling Denied Claims: If your claim is denied, we gather and present additional evidence to support your case, working to achieve fair claim acceptance and coverage.
- Protecting Against Further Damage: Water damage can quickly lead to mold or structural concerns. We prioritize swift action to address these issues, advocating for remediation services that align with your policy’s standards.
Steps to Take After Water Damage in Your Commercial Property
- Document Damage Immediately: Take photos and videos of all affected areas, including structural impacts and damaged items. Documentation is essential for supporting your insurance claim.
- Contact a Licensed Plumber: A plumber’s report serves as critical evidence, establishing the leak’s origin and duration, which is important since many insurance policies don’t cover damage from prolonged leaks.
- Engage a Public Adjuster Early: Hiring a public adjuster at the onset of your claim can prevent common insurance company tactics that may limit your settlement. Our team makes sure your claim is thoroughly documented from the start.
The Excel Adjusters Advantage for Commercial Properties
With Excel Adjusters, your commercial property water damage claim is managed by experienced professionals dedicated to advocating for a fair and reasonable settlement. We support you throughout the claims process, protecting your property and financial interests by working with insurance carriers to secure coverage for all applicable repairs and replacements. Here’s how we help:
- Field Scoping: We accompany insurance adjusters during site assessments, ensuring accurate claim documentation.
- Assistance With Insurance and Restoration Vendors: While insurers may suggest specific restoration vendors, we recommend selecting an independent provider to avoid potential conflicts of interest and ensure high-quality restoration work.
- Recovery of Business Interruption Costs: If water damage disrupts your operations, we pursue reimbursement for “Loss of Use” expenses covered in your policy.
Have You Experienced Water Damage To Your Commercial Property? Contact Excel Adjusters
If you've experienced water damage in your commercial building, our team at Excel Adjusters simplifies the insurance claims process, advocating on your behalf to achieve a fair and reasonable settlement. We offer a no-cost consultation to discuss your commercial water damage insurance claim, providing the support you need to protect your property and secure the compensation you deserve.
Call Excel Adjusters Today for Your Free Consultation
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