Florida Homeowners Guide to Properly Documenting Storm or Water Damage

How to Document Storm or Water Damage in Your Florida Home

There is plenty to love about living in Florida. With the state offering everything from an abundance of sunshine and year-round warm weather to pristine beaches, theme parks, and unlimited entertainment options, it’s no wonder why so many people choose to live and retire in Florida.

But if we’re being honest, living in Florida doesn’t come without risks. And one of the most significant risks Florida homeowners face is storm-related damage. In fact, when you live in Florida, you need to be prepared for the potential risks of severe storms and water damage.

There is nothing that can be done to prevent a tropical storm or hurricane from hitting Florida. That’s why it is so crucial for homeowners to understand how to properly protect their properties and accurately document any damage in case they need to file an insurance claim.

By providing your insurance company with accurate and thorough documentation, you will not only help expedite the claims process but also ensure that you receive fair compensation. This guide will walk you through the steps to properly document storm or water damage in your Florida home.

1. Prioritize Safety Before Documenting the Damage

Before documenting any damage, ensure that you and your family are safe. If the damage is extensive, avoid entering areas that may be structurally compromised. Once it is safe to do so, you can begin the documentation process.

2. Conduct an Initial Assessment of Your Property

Begin by conducting a thorough assessment of your property. Identify and document any areas that were impacted by the storm or through water intrusion. Focus on key areas such as the roof, windows, doors, and plumbing systems. Some of the most common visible signs of storm-related damage include:

• Roof leaks or missing shingles
• Flooded areas or standing water
• Damaged walls, ceilings, and floors
• Broken windows or doors
• Electrical issues

3. Take Comprehensive and Clear Photos and Videos

Providing visual evidence is especially important when filing an insurance claim for storm damage. Use a high-quality camera or smartphone to capture clear images and videos of all damaged areas. When documenting the damage, be sure to include the following:

• Wide-angle shots to capture the overall damage
• Close-up images of specific damages (e.g., cracks, leaks, mold growth)
• Date-stamp the photos if possible

While your efforts may be focused on the damage accrued by your home, remember to document external areas as well as storms commonly damage landscaping, fences, and detached structures like sheds or garages. This damage should also be documented and included in your claim.

4. Keep Detailed Written Records of the Damage

In addition to the visual evidence, you should maintain a written record of the damage. Document the following information:

• Date and time of the storm
• Description of the damage
• Affected rooms or areas
• Any temporary repairs that were made to prevent further damage

If you notice any new damage after your initial assessment, update your records accordingly.

5. Gather any Relevant Documentation

To further support your claim, collect important documents related to your property. These may include:

• Homeowners insurance policy
• Recent home inspection reports
• Receipts for repairs, maintenance, or improvements
• Proof of ownership for damaged items (e.g., appliance manuals, purchase receipts)

Another good idea is to take a walkthrough video of your home. Highlight any items of value. This will provide you with a visual record to prove the pre-storm condition of your home and validate your possessions. Having these documents readily available can strengthen your claim and provide a clear picture of your home’s pre-storm condition.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly

Once you have gathered your evidence, contact your insurance provider to initiate the claims process and provide them the evidence to support your claim. Be sure to ask about your policy’s coverage limits, deductibles, and the next steps in the claims process. Prompt reporting can help you hopefully avoid any delays in receiving the assistance you need.

7. Seek Professional Assessments When Necessary

In some situations, you may need a professional inspection to fully evaluate the extent of the damage. For instance, you may want to hire a licensed contractor for structural assessments, water damage restoration specialist for moisture-related issues, or even an independent public adjuster to provide you with a second opinion on your claim.

Professional assessments such as these can provide unbiased evidence to help support your claim and ensure no damage is overlooked.

8. Keep a Journal For Your Claims

The claims process can be lengthy and complex. Therefore, it is a good idea to keep a dedicated journal, so you can track all the interactions you have with your insurance company. Some of the things you should record in your journal include:

• Dates and times of phone calls or meetings
• Names of representatives and adjusters
• Summaries of discussions and decisions

This record can help resolve disputes and ensure transparency throughout the process.

9. Understand Your Rights as a Policyholder

Florida homeowners are protected by specific laws governing insurance claims. Familiarize yourself with your rights as a policyholder. If you encounter challenges during the claims process, consider consulting a legal professional specializing in insurance claims.

WrightWay Works With Insurance Companies to Help Get Your Claim Processed

Properly documenting your storm and/or water damage is essential if you want a smooth insurance claims process. Florida’s weather, while breathtakingly beautiful, can also be unpredictable, so preparation and thorough documentation are your best defenses against the worst of Florida’s weather. But of course, it’s not always easy dealing with Florida homeowner insurance claims.

At WrightWay Emergency Services, we understand that filing and tracking insurance claims can be overwhelming for a homeowner, especially in the aftermath of a disaster. That’s why we have a dedicated team to help guide you through the insurance process. From assessing your damage and filing your claims to negotiating with adjusters, we work closely with your insurance provider to ensure a smooth and seamless experience for you and your family.

In Florida, storm and water damage can occur at any time. Contact WrightWay Emergency Services today, so you can be prepared before the next storm hits. We are the remediation and restoration experts that can help return your home to pre-storm condition quickly!