Whether it is a home, a rental or a business, the steps after damage are similar. Safety comes first; the paperwork comes right after.
Right away
- Make sure everyone is safe, and stay out of areas that are not.
- Report the claim to your insurer as soon as you can, and write down the claim number.
- Take photos and video of all the damage before anything is moved or repaired.
- Make temporary repairs to prevent more damage, such as tarps or boarding, and keep the receipts.
Make the inventory
Go room by room. For each damaged item, write what it is, a description, roughly when it was bought, what it cost or would cost to replace, and whether you have photos or receipts.
Keep a claim log
Record every call and email with the insurer and adjuster: the date, who you spoke with and what was said. Keep copies of everything you send.
Before you sign
Read any settlement offer carefully. If the damage is large or the claim is disputed, consider talking to an attorney.
Our property damage inventory totals the list as you go.
General information, not legal advice. Your policy and the law decide what is covered.
This article is general information, not legal, tax or regulatory advice. Rules change; confirm current requirements with the responsible agency or a licensed professional.
