WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE WATER DAMAGE REBUILD PROCESS

As water damage can differ in type and extent, the process of rebuilding will vary for each case. Still, it is important to know the standard steps that typically make up a water damage rebuild.

This timeline highlights the events that could occur during the water damage rebuild, along with advice to help make sure your insurance coverage is in place.

Before the rebuild process starts, certain steps should be completed. These actions are vital to the claims process and may help you secure a fair settlement from your insurer.

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Water Damage Rebuild

Step 01

Protect yourself and your home

We know that water and electricity don’t mix, so if there is water damage around outlets or light fixtures, turn off both the water and the main power supply. Avoid touching standing water until the electricity is switched off, and steer clear of rooms with sagging ceilings or floors. If the water has been present for more than 24 hours, wear a surgical mask or avoid entering the building to protect yourself from mold, lead, or asbestos.

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Step 02

Hire a Plumber

When you notice water damage, hire a licensed plumber to find the leak’s source and confirm how long it has been present. Insurance coverage may be denied for leaks lasting over 14 days, so it’s crucial to have a licensed professional verify when the leak began.

Step 03

Collect Evidence

To file a claim with your insurance company, be prepared with evidence. Take pictures and videos of the leak and any damage to your floors, furniture, and valuables. Keep any broken pipes, filtration systems, or other items that caused or contributed to the leak. This will help ensure that your claim is covered by your insurance.

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Step 04

File A Claim And Expect Your Insurance Company To Do Their Research

Once you file a water damage claim, an insurance agent will visit your home for an inspection. They will determine the cause of the leak, how it occurred, and what repairs are necessary. This process, known as “field scoping,” is important for estimating the cost of repairs. While the claims process may seem simple, having a licensed public adjuster ensures your interests are fully represented and that you receive proper compensation.

Keep in mind that not every type of water damage is covered by insurance. For example, damage from floods, long-term leaks, or poor maintenance is usually excluded from standard homeowners policies. Flood-related damage must be addressed through a separate flood insurance policy if you have one. Public adjusters can help clarify what’s covered and assist you with these complex situations.

The insurance company may determine the actual cash value of repairs, accounting for depreciation, which can lower the payout. A public adjuster can work to ensure you get a fair valuation.

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What Kind Of Water Damages Should Be Covered?

  • Unexpected leaks that started within 14 days
  • Slab leaks, unless your insurance policy states otherwise
  • Dishwasher leaks that occur unexpectedly
  • Leaks from a water purifier system
  • Leaks from a garbage disposal unit
  • Rain and wind damage occurring simultaneously
  • Water escaping from burst pipes
  • Washing machine-related water leaks
  • Leaks associated with a refrigerator
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water damages should be covered

Step 05

Do Damage Control

Once the photos and videos are taken and the claim is filed, there are actions you can take to protect your belongings from further damage:

  • Remove water from furniture by wiping it dry
  • Open the doors of cabinets and closets to allow airflow
  • Prop up cushions on couches and chairs for better drying
  • Position wood blocks, aluminum foil, or foam beneath furniture legs to avoid water contact
  • Transfer paintings, jewelry, photos, and other precious items to a safe, dry location.
  • Clear wet floors or carpets of rugs, books, magazines, or other items with dyes.
  • Loop curtains through a coat hanger and rest the hanger on the curtain rod to allow them to dry.

WATER DAMAGE REBUILD PROCESS

Mold growth can begin in as little as 24 hours, making it important to start the rebuild process right away. While the process may differ for each property owner, most water damage rebuilds include the following steps.

Water Clean-Up

Step 01

Water Clean-Up

The initial step is removing the water. We recommend hiring a professional water damage mitigation company because they have the right equipment and can find hidden damage. Depending on the leak’s source, the water could contain dangerous toxins such as sewage, mold, or chemicals. Professionals are trained with protective gear and understand the precautions necessary during cleanup.

Fixing The Leak

Step 02

Fixing The Leak

To avoid ruining the rebuild, you must fix the leak first. Insurance companies typically cover the repair of the leak’s exact location but do not cover re-piping the whole home. They will likely hire a leak detection company or specialized plumber to locate and fix the leak. Once this is done, the rebuild can continue.

Step 03

Dry Job

After fixing the leak, it’s important to dry out the damaged areas to prevent additional water damage and mold. For the best results, you should hire a water damage rebuild company. They will use commercial-grade equipment like heaters, dehumidifiers, and air movers to remove moisture and enhance airflow. Air scrubbers may also be used to clear mold particles from the air.

If you’ve filed a claim, your insurance company may suggest a water damage rebuild company to manage the drying process. Keep in mind that some companies exclusively serve insurance companies. These firms often take on 30 or more jobs per month from insurers.

Insurance companies have the power to set the payout for your water damage claim, giving them leverage over their vendors. Consequently, a water damage rebuild company hired by your insurer may take shortcuts during the drying process to meet the expectations of the insurance company they often work with.

We recommend not automatically accepting the water damage rebuild company suggested by your insurance. Instead, choose a licensed and independent company that is committed to doing honest work. The company you select will generally bill your insurance company directly, and if the water damage is covered by your policy, the insurer should pay for it.

Step 04

Lead and asbestos abatement

While many water damage rebuild companies seek to limit disruption, materials such as drywall and insulation may need to be removed if they cannot be saved. If your home was constructed before 1990, the rebuild company may test for lead and asbestos, which need special precautions during the process.

States have different rules for lead and asbestos removal, and some require licensed contractors to handle these materials. A reliable water damage rebuild company will be aware of the regulations in your state and assist you if lead or asbestos is discovered.

Dry Job
Cleaning Personal Belongings
Cleaning Personal Belongings

Step 05

Cleaning Personal Belongings

When the drying process is finished, it’s important to treat your belongings with antimicrobial solutions to prevent mold and bacterial growth. This can include carpets, clothes, furniture, curtains, and any other potentially affected items.

Step 06

Rebuild

Once the water has been removed and the drying process is complete, the rebuild can start. The process may involve removing, repairing, or replacing damaged materials or structural elements based on the severity of the leak. This can include drywall, cabinetry, hardwood floors, the foundation, and more.

While certain water damage rebuild companies can handle both drying and repairs, it’s wise to consult a reliable contractor for the job. Insurance companies may provide a list of vendors offering both services, but these vendors sometimes cut corners to save money. Many homeowners end up dissatisfied with the final outcome.

Opting for a contractor you trust helps ensure the best results. With an estimate from your claims manager regarding the insurance coverage, you can negotiate a repair cost that aligns with your budget.

How a Water Damage Rebuild West Hollywood

Get Expert Help With Water Damage Insurance Claims

Public adjusters assist policyholders through the claims process. Unlike insurance adjusters who represent the insurance company, a public adjuster works for your benefit to maximize your policy’s coverage. Hiring a public adjuster relieves you from the stress of dealing with the insurance company. They take over all communication, allowing you to concentrate on getting your life back on track.

Public adjusters handle negotiations with your insurance company to ensure you get the full benefits of your policy. It’s recommended to contact them at the start of your water damage claim, but they can still help if:

    • Should your insurance company deny ALE or Loss of Use coverage, a public adjuster can assist. They will negotiate with the insurer to secure reimbursement for any living costs during water damage repairs.
    • If the repair work on your home is unsatisfactory, a public adjuster can help. They will negotiate with your insurer to guarantee that the “like-for-like” standard in your policy is followed.
    • If your insurance settlement falls short of covering the cost to restore your home, a public adjuster can assist. They will negotiate with your insurer to secure a higher claim settlement and return your property to its pre-loss condition.

Whether you’re early or late in the claims process, you might question why a public adjuster is necessary when you can obtain repair estimates and speak with the insurance company by yourself.

Although managing the claims process alone is an option, most homeowners are not familiar with water damage claims or the intricacies of insurance policies and home repairs.

Homeowners often get emotionally involved in the claims process because their home is one of their most valuable assets. Public adjusters aim to maximize payouts for claims like water damage, flood damage, and property damage. They also have in-depth knowledge of water damage-related topics such as replacement costs, sewage backups, and flood damage. With this knowledge, public adjusters are able to communicate with insurance companies to secure the necessary funds for repairs.

Most contractors and floor experts lack the necessary licensing from the Department of Insurance to represent you in your water damage claim. Public adjusters, on the other hand, are licensed by the state and can provide legal support throughout the claims process.

A public adjuster will support you through every step of the claims process, offering guidance, handling negotiations, and managing paperwork. Their daily involvement with insurance companies gives them a deeper understanding of the process, ensuring a better chance for a fair settlement.

The advantage of working with a public adjuster is that they take a small percentage of the settlement they secure for you. They strive to get the highest possible settlement for your claim.

If water damage has affected your home or business, ​Excel Adjusters​ is ready to help. We’ve successfully settled over 4,200 claims and are committed to advocating for fair adjustments with your insurance company. Call us today for a free consultation.

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