Here are some useful techniques and suggestions for creating an inventory of your possessions, documenting any damages to your property, and collaborating with your insurance adjuster.
No matter if a natural disaster caused a tree to fall on your roof or flooded your basement, sorting through the wreckage can be a daunting task.
Although it may be tempting to immediately dispose of any ruined items, it is crucial to document the condition of your property if you plan to file an insurance claim. Once it is safe to return, keep these straightforward guidelines in mind to ensure that you accurately evaluate the harm before beginning the recovery process.
Before the insurance adjuster arrives, your policy will necessitate that you create a list of all the items that have been damaged or destroyed. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners advises that you meticulously sort through any damaged goods, and if you do not already have a home inventory list, sit down with your family and create a list of items in each room from memory. From sporting equipment to bedding and fine china, make a note of the item’s description, brand, place of purchase, cost, and model and serial number (if applicable).
Unless instructed by local authorities, avoid throwing anything out before the insurance adjuster has had a chance to examine it. If you must dispose of items, remember to take a photograph of each discarded item. Additionally, keep samples on hand for the adjuster to inspect. For instance, keep a piece of ruined carpeting to assist in estimating the cost of repairs.
Note
That you may have different types of insurance covering the damages from the catastrophe. For example, you may have an auto policy that covers a flooded car, which means that you may need to file separate claims for each loss. Nonetheless, it is still a good idea to document all of the pertinent details.
To ensure that you receive the proper compensation for damages to your home, it’s essential to document the destruction thoroughly. Utilize your camera or smartphone to conduct a meticulous walk-through, capturing video footage and providing narration, spotlighting all damaged items, including small electronics, appliances, and furniture.
Take note of the serial and model numbers and save any paper receipts that you can salvage. Create 2-3 copies of each receipt, with one for the adjuster and the others for your records. Having receipts for damaged items will facilitate the settlement of your claim.
In addition
Set the date stamp on your camera settings to ensure proper documentation of the damages. Robert Hunter, the director of insurance at the Consumer Federation of America, suggests that if you realize later on that you have no pictures, your family likely has pictures of rooms in your house from holidays or other celebrations that can help recreate a list of your belongings.
Several smartphone apps can help you itemize everything in your home
Which is crucial for the insurance process. Furthermore, some mobile apps can determine if you are under or over-insured.
When the adjuster comes on-site
Work closely with them to ensure a smoother rebuilding process. As King advises, the adjuster is there to assist you, and this is your insurance, your house, and your life. Stay with them throughout the entire process.
And remember that damage restoration companies have the tools, knowledge, and experience to not only fix the leak, but also help restore your home.