Question 1

Should I file an insurance claim or pay out of pocket?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the damage cost versus your deductible and claim history. For minor damage under $2,000-3,000, paying out of pocket often makes sense to avoid rate increases. For major damage (over $5,000+), filing a claim is usually the right choice. We provide a free estimate to help you decide.

Question 2

Will my insurance rates go up if I file a claim?

Accepted Answer

Possibly, but not always. One claim typically won't cause a major increase, especially if it's your first claim in years. Multiple claims within 3-5 years can impact rates or renewability. However, major damage (over $10,000+) usually warrants filing a claim regardless. Your agent can review your specific policy history.

Question 3

What is 'assignment of benefits' and should I sign it?

Accepted Answer

Assignment of benefits allows us to bill your insurance company directly - you don't pay upfront. It's completely optional. Benefits: no out-of-pocket costs upfront, we handle the paperwork. Drawback: you give us rights to negotiate with insurance. We never pressure customers to sign - cash payment is always an option.

Question 4

How much will I have to pay out of pocket?

Accepted Answer

You're responsible for your deductible (typically $500-2,500). If the total cost is $10,000 and your deductible is $1,000, you pay $1,000 and insurance covers $9,000. Some policies also have depreciation (actual cash value vs replacement cost) that can affect payout.

Question 5

What if my insurance company denies the claim?

Accepted Answer

We help with appeals by providing detailed documentation, additional photos, industry standards references, and technical explanations. Sometimes claims are denied for valid reasons (maintenance issues), but often it's due to incomplete information. We've successfully overturned many initial denials.

Question 6

Do you work with all insurance companies?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work with all major carriers (State Farm, Allstate, Liberty Mutual, Travelers, USAA, etc.) and have decades of experience with their processes. We speak their language and know what documentation they require.

Question 7

How long does the insurance claim process take?

Accepted Answer

Typical timeline: claim filed (day 1), adjuster visit (2-7 days), approval (3-14 days), payment (7-21 days). Total: 2-6 weeks. However, we often start emergency mitigation (water extraction, drying) immediately and insurance retroactively approves those costs.

Question 8

What documentation will I need for my claim?

Accepted Answer

We provide: detailed photos/videos, moisture readings, scope of work, itemized estimate, and daily progress logs. You'll need: your policy number, incident date/time, description of what happened, and your deductible amount. We handle the technical documentation.

Question 9

Can I choose my own restoration company or does insurance decide?

Accepted Answer

You choose. Insurance companies may suggest 'preferred vendors,' but you have the legal right to hire any licensed contractor. Don't let adjusters pressure you into using their preferred vendors. You're the customer - you decide who works on your property.

Understanding Your Insurance Coverage

What Does Insurance Cover?

Typically Covered

Burst Pipes

Appliance Leaks

Roof Leaks (Storm Damage)

Accidental Discharge

HVAC System Failure

Fire Suppression Damage

Usually NOT Covered

Gradual Damage

Flood (Natural)

Sewer Backup

Maintenance Issues

Mold (from neglect)

Ground Water Seepage

The Insurance Claims Process

Contact Us First (Optional but Recommended)

File Your Claim

We Document Everything

Insurance Adjuster Visit

Claim Approval & Payment

Restoration Work Begins

We Work With All Major Insurance Carriers

Insurance Questions Answered

More Helpful Resources

Our Process

Prevention Tips

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