Protecting Your Claim

Each insurance policy contains a Conditions section that explains what your Duties and Responsibilities are after you have suffered a loss…the most important two are Document the damages and Mitigate against future losses.

Documentation

Documentation is KEY…as this will help to prove the extent of your loss. One thing our adjusters can’t stress enough is PHOTOS, PHOTOS, PHOTOS. The old saying, a picture is worth a thousand words…in your situation, a single picture could be worth tens of thousands of dollars.

Mitigation

Mitigation is VERY important as well, because you are essentially protecting the ‘undamaged’ portions of your property from any additional losses.

If you have suffered a loss and did nothing to prevent any additional damages, your insurance company may have the right to deny your entire claim based on this provision. Each circumstance is different, but as a precautionary measure, as soon as you are able to begin mitigation, do so. Mitigation addressed not only the removal of damaged material, but also any temporary repairs, as well as anything needed to protect against possible break-ins (boarding-up of windows/doors and/or temporary fence surrounding the property).