What To Do if You Have a Burst Pipe
First, review your policy to ensure coverage is available and then call your insurance company
If you have not reviewed your policy in full before this point, you will want to read the full policy and ensure that coverage is available. Upon verifying coverage, you will want to contact your insurance company to notify them of the damage. Be cautious answering questions at this point, only answering exactly what was asked of you with facts only. Do not speculate or offer your opinion on anything, only present facts that are known.
Second, document the damage
One of the most important steps you can take is to document your property thoroughly. This will serve as crucial evidence when you file a damage claim. This is extremely important if you are mitigating the damages and possibly removing any of the damaged materials. Photos and videos are the best way to document the condition of your property. Do not rely on mitigation contractors or adjusters for this documentation as they may not share it with you when and if you need it down the road.
Third, contact a public adjuster (this should probably be #1)
Public adjusters can help you throughout the entire insurance claim process. A Public Adjuster is going to be familiar with reviewing insurance policies, estimating and documenting damages, and negotiating with the insurance company. Whether you need help filing a damage claim or renegotiating an undervalued claim, public adjusters can help. From this point on, your public adjuster will work with your insurance company, striving to optimize the benefits of your policy for your burst pipe damage claim.
