Emergency Water Damage Cleanup: Do's and Don’ts for Insurance Approval

Benji Licht
Apr 14
4 min read

Updated: May 15

⏱️ The Importance of Prompt Action

When water damage occurs, time is of the essence. Quick action is essential to prevent further damage, such as mold growth, which can complicate your claim and the restoration process. However, it’s important to understand how your immediate actions can affect your insurance coverage and approval.

✅ The Dos of Water Damage Cleanup

To increase the chances of a successful water damage claim and protect your property, consider the following steps:

📸 1. Document the Damage Thoroughly

Before starting any cleanup, take detailed photos and videos of the affected areas. This documentation will be critical in proving the extent of the damage and helping your insurer understand the scope of the problem. Capturing the damage as it occurs, without tampering with the scene too much, ensures that you have a clear record of the situation.

🚰 2. Shut Off the Water Source

If possible, turn off the water supply to stop further damage. This is especially crucial in cases of burst pipes or plumbing failures. Shutting off the source of the water will prevent the situation from worsening and may help with your water damage insurance claim as insurers generally appreciate proactive actions that limit damage.

🧽 3. Begin Cleanup Efforts

After securing the water supply, start removing standing water if it’s safe to do so. Use buckets, towels, or a wet vacuum to get rid of as much water as possible. Water removal should be done as quickly as possible to prevent further structural damage and mold growth.

🛠️ 4. Use Professional Help for Large-Scale Damage

If the water damage is extensive, consider calling in professionals who specialize in water damage restoration. They have the tools and expertise to handle large-scale cleanup effectively. Professional services can also provide the necessary documentation and a report, which will help substantiate your water damage claims.

💨 5. Ensure Proper Ventilation

Drying out the affected area is essential. Use fans and open windows to promote air circulation, helping to reduce moisture. If possible, use dehumidifiers to remove excess water from the air, which can help prevent mold growth and accelerate the drying process.

❌ The Don’ts of Water Damage Cleanup

While prompt action is important, there are certain things you should avoid doing during the cleanup process. Mistakes can jeopardize both your safety and your insurance water claim approval. Here are key things to avoid:

⏳ 1. Do Not Delay Reporting the Incident

Waiting too long to report water damage to your insurer can lead to complications with your claim. Many insurance policies require you to report damage within a certain period. Failing to do so can result in your claim being denied, as the insurer might argue that the delay worsened the damage.

🚫 2. Don’t Begin Extensive Repairs Without Approval

While it’s tempting to start fixing your home immediately, avoid making extensive repairs before speaking with your insurer. If you repair damage prematurely, the insurer may dispute your claim or be unable to verify the full extent of the damage. Always wait for an assessment or approval before undertaking significant repair work.

☣️ 3. Avoid Using Hazardous Cleaning Methods

In some cases, people try to clean up water damage using methods or chemicals that may further harm their property. For instance, using bleach or other harsh chemicals on porous materials like wood or carpet can cause more damage than it prevents. Stick to cleaning methods recommended by professionals or your insurance provider to ensure you don’t cause additional harm.

🦠 4. Don’t Ignore Mold Prevention

Mold growth can occur quickly in damp environments, especially if the water damage is not addressed swiftly. Do not leave wet areas untreated, as mold can not only cause significant property damage but also result in health hazards. Taking immediate action to dry out the area and keep it ventilated can help prevent mold from forming.

🗑️ 5. Do Not Dispose of Damaged Belongings Prematurely

It can be tempting to throw away water-damaged items right away, but doing so may hinder your ability to claim the full value of those items. Keep damaged belongings until an insurance adjuster has had the chance to assess them, unless they pose an immediate health risk or are completely unsalvageable.

🛠️ Your Actions During Cleanup and Their Effect on Insurance Claims

Your actions during the cleanup process can directly influence your insurer’s decision regarding your water damage insurance claim. Insurers want to see that you took reasonable steps to prevent further damage and that you minimized losses. Failure to follow proper procedures could lead to partial or full denial of your claim.

👷‍♂️ The Role of Professional Water Damage Services

In cases of significant water damage, professionals not only perform the cleanup but also help document the damage thoroughly and comply with industry standards. They can provide your insurance company with detailed reports and estimates, ensuring your claim is processed smoothly.

Moreover, some insurance policies have specific guidelines about what constitutes reasonable cleanup. If you attempt to handle a major water damage situation on your own, your insurer may challenge whether your cleanup methods were appropriate. Using professional services minimizes this risk.

📄 Your Insurance Policy

Your insurance policy will outline exactly what is covered in the event of water damage, including the specific steps you need to take for cleanup and claim submission. Familiarizing yourself with the policy’s details can help avoid potential misunderstandings with your insurer. For instance, policies often include clauses about what damage is covered and the timeframe in which claims must be reported.

✅ Mastering Water Damage Cleanup for Claims

Handling water damage cleanup properly is essential to ensuring the success of your flood damage claims. By following the right procedures and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure that your cleanup efforts are in line with your insurer’s expectations, helping to expedite the approval process.

Taking quick, careful action to prevent further damage, documenting everything, and contacting professionals when necessary can significantly improve the likelihood of a successful claim. Keep in mind that your insurer will look closely at the steps you take during the cleanup process to determine the legitimacy and validity of your claim.