Carolina
Restoration Solutions
Navigating Insurance Claims
A comprehensive guide to handling water damage insurance claims successfully
Understanding Your Insurance Coverage
Dealing with insurance companies after water damage can be overwhelming. Our guide helps you navigate the claims process efficiently to ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses.
At Carolina Restoration Solutions, we have extensive experience working with insurance companies and can help advocate for you throughout the claims process. Call 864-423-5170 for assistance.
Insurance Claim Process: Step by Step
Review Your Policy
- Locate your homeowner's or renter's insurance policy
- Identify what water damage is covered (sudden & accidental vs. gradual)
- Check coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions
- Note if you have additional flood insurance or endorsements
Notify Your Insurance Company
- Contact your insurer as soon as possible (most policies require prompt notification)
- Get your claim number and adjuster contact information
- Ask about emergency service coverage and advance payment
- Understand timeline expectations for the claim process
Document Everything
- Take extensive photos/videos of all damage before cleanup
- Create a detailed inventory of damaged items with values
- Save all communications with your insurance company
- Keep receipts for emergency repairs and temporary housing
Meet with the Insurance Adjuster
- Prepare your documentation before the adjuster arrives
- Walk through the damage with the adjuster
- Point out all affected areas, even those not immediately visible
- Take notes during the adjuster's inspection
Get Professional Assessment
- Hire a reputable restoration company like Carolina Restoration Solutions
- Have them provide a detailed estimate for repairs
- Request documentation of all hidden damage (behind walls, under floors)
- Get a professional opinion on risk of secondary damage (mold, structural issues)
Review Settlement Offer
- Compare the insurance settlement offer with your contractor estimates
- Understand what is included (and excluded) in the offer
- Check for coverage of code upgrades if applicable
- Be prepared to negotiate if the offer is insufficient
Common Insurance Policy Terms
Covered Peril
A specific risk or cause of loss covered by an insurance policy, such as fire, wind, or burst pipes.
Deductible
The amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Higher deductibles generally mean lower premiums.
Actual Cash Value (ACV)
The depreciated value of your property at the time of loss (replacement cost minus depreciation).
Replacement Cost Value (RCV)
The cost to replace damaged property with new, similar quality items, without deducting for depreciation.
Loss of Use
Coverage for additional living expenses if your home is uninhabitable during repairs, including hotel costs, food, etc.
Tips for a Successful Claim
- Act quickly - Most policies have time limits for reporting damage and filing claims.
- Be thorough with documentation - The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim.
- Use professional restoration services - Insurance companies respect documentation from certified professionals.
- Keep detailed records - Document all conversations with date, time, and name of the person you spoke with.
- Don't rush to settle - Make sure all damage has been discovered before accepting a settlement.
- Appeal if necessary - If your claim is denied or underpaid, you have the right to appeal the decision.
- Consider public adjusters - For large or complex claims, a public adjuster can help maximize your settlement.
How Carolina Restoration Solutions Can Help
Detailed Documentation
We provide comprehensive reports and detailed estimates that insurance companies respect and accept.
Insurance Liaison
We work directly with your insurance company, speaking their language and advocating on your behalf.
Expedited Process
Our experience with insurance claims allows us to help streamline the process and get your life back to normal faster.
Need Help With Your Insurance Claim?
Our team has extensive experience working with all major insurance companies. Let us help you navigate the claims process and ensure you receive fair compensation for your water damage.