Insurance and Restoration Services: What You Need to Know

When disaster strikes in—whether it’s a flood, fire, or storm damage—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Between dealing with the aftermath and trying to get your home back to normal, there’s the added stress of navigating insurance claims and understanding what’s covered. Many homeowners are unsure about how insurance works when it comes to restoration services, which is why it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the process.

Understanding Your Insurance Coverage

Your insurance policy can vary based on your provider and the specifics of the coverage you have, but most homeowners insurance policies will cover certain types of damage caused by unforeseen events, like fires, storms, or vandalism. However, not all types of damages are covered automatically, and there are key distinctions to be aware of:

• Covered Perils: Most policies cover damage caused by natural events such as storms, fires, and water damage from burst pipes or roof leaks. Check your policy to see what specific events are covered.
• Exclusions: Flood damage, for example, is often excluded from standard homeowners policies. If you live in a flood-prone area, you might need additional flood insurance.
• Deductibles and Limits: Your policy will have a deductible, which is the amount you’re responsible for paying before your insurance kicks in. Some policies also have limits on how much will be reimbursed for certain types of damage, so it’s important to understand those limits upfront.

Does Insurance Cover Restoration Services?

The answer depends on the cause of the damage, your policy details, and whether the damage meets your policy’s coverage requirements. Here’s how it typically works:

• Water Damage: Water damage from sources like burst pipes or heavy rains (if you have water damage coverage) is usually covered by your insurance. However, damage from flooding or sewer backups may require additional insurance.
• Fire Damage: Fire damage is generally covered under most homeowners insurance policies, and restoration services for fire and smoke damage are often included in the claims process.
• Mold Remediation: If mold growth is a result of a covered peril (e.g., water damage from a burst pipe), mold remediation costs may be covered. However, if mold is due to neglect or lack of maintenance, it might not be covered.

It’s important to note that while your insurance may cover the cost of restoration, you’ll still be responsible for paying your deductible, and there may be limits on the amount you can claim. It’s a good idea to review your policy before disaster strikes so you’re not caught off guard.

Will Insurance Cover the Full Cost of Restoration?

While your insurance may cover most or all of the costs associated with restoration, keep in mind that there could be gaps in coverage. For instance, if your deductible is high or if certain damage is excluded from your policy, you may have out-of-pocket expenses.

You should also consider Additional Living Expenses (ALE). If your home is uninhabitable during the restoration process, you may be entitled to reimbursement for additional living expenses, such as hotel stays. Make sure you check your policy to see if this applies.

How to File a Claim for Restoration Services

Filing a claim for restoration services is typically a straightforward process, but it’s essential to follow the right steps to ensure your claim is processed smoothly:

1. Contact Your Insurance Company: As soon as you notice damage to your property, notify your insurer. Many companies have a 24/7 claims hotline or online claims submission system. Be sure to provide as much detail as possible about the damage.
2. Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of the damage, and make a list of all affected areas and items. This documentation will be crucial when filing your claim and working with the restoration company.
3. Contact a Restoration Company: Once you’ve notified your insurance provider, contact a professional restoration company. Many restoration services have experience working with insurance claims and can help guide you through the process.
4. Work with Your Adjuster: Your insurance adjuster will assess the damage to your property. You may need to coordinate with the restoration company and your adjuster to ensure the damage is properly assessed and covered.

Choosing 1-800 WATER DAMAGE for Your Claim

Not all restoration companies are the same, but at 1-800 WATER DAMAGE, you and your property comes first. What makes us different from other providers? We believe that restoring your property is about more than just repairing damages; it’s about restoring a sense of normalcy and comfort with expertise and efficiency.

• We’re Certified and Experienced Technicians: Our IICRC-certified restoration professionals deal with damage stemming from water, smoke, fire, sewage, and mold.
• We Partner with Insurance Claims Experts: Our team partners with local insurance- adjusters to facilitate a smooth restoration process from start to finish. 
• We Prioritize Clear Communication: We prioritize open communication and transparency throughout the restoration process, ensuring you’re informed every step of the way.

Understanding how insurance and restoration services work together can help you navigate the often stressful process of dealing with property damage. By reviewing your policy, understanding what’s covered, and working with experienced restoration professionals, you can ensure your home is properly restored and that your insurance claim is handled smoothly.

If you need help with water damage, fire damage, or mold remediation, don’t hesitate to contact your locally trusted 1-800 WATER DAMAGE.