Insurance FAQ
Understanding Your Coverage
It depends on the cause. Most standard policies cover damage that is “sudden and accidental” (e.g., a burst pipe, fire, or wind damage). They typically exclude damage from floods (which require separate insurance), earthquakes, neglected maintenance (e.g., a long-term slow leak), or sewer/drain backups (unless you have a special rider). We help you understand your policy and document everything properly to maximize your coverage.
Only if it was caused by a covered event. If a burst pipe caused water damage, and mold grew as a result, the mold remediation is usually covered. If the mold grew from a long-term maintenance issue or neglect, it is typically not covered. Our team works with your adjuster to clearly document the source and timeline of damage.
This is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in. It’s crucial to know this amount, as a repair costing less than the deductible should often be paid for yourself to avoid a claim on your record. We provide transparent estimates so you can make informed decisions about whether to file a claim.
This is a lifesaver if your home is uninhabitable. ALE covers costs beyond your normal living expenses, such as hotel bills, temporary rental housing, and sometimes extra food expenses while your home is being restored. We help document these expenses and work with your insurance company to ensure you receive full ALE benefits.
Most homeowner’s policies cover water damage from burst pipes, fire damage, and smoke damage. However, flooding typically requires separate flood insurance. Gradual water damage from maintenance issues usually isn’t covered. We conduct a thorough assessment and help you understand exactly what’s covered based on the cause and nature of your damage.
Absolutely. Our dedicated insurance specialists handle all communication with your insurance company, document everything to industry standards, and advocate for maximum coverage. You’ll have one point of contact who keeps you informed throughout the process, but we manage the day-to-day interactions with adjusters.
We provide detailed documentation using industry-standard protocols that insurance companies recognize and respect. If coverage is initially denied or the settlement seems insufficient, our insurance specialists can provide additional documentation and work with your adjuster to make a case for proper coverage. We’ve successfully helped hundreds of homeowners navigate disputes and receive fair settlements.
Most insurance adjusters respond within 24-48 hours for emergency situations, with initial assessments completed within 3-5 business days. The full claims approval process typically takes 1-2 weeks, though this can vary based on damage complexity and your specific insurance company. We don’t wait for insurance approval to begin emergency mitigation. We start immediately to prevent further damage.
If the damage cost exceeds your deductible by a significant amount, filing a claim usually makes sense. For minor damage below or just slightly above your deductible, paying out-of-pocket may be more cost-effective and won’t impact your insurance rates. We provide transparent estimates and help you understand the financial implications of both options so you can make the best decision for your situation.
Yes. In fact, most insurance policies require you to take immediate action to prevent further damage. We begin emergency mitigation immediately, extracting water, securing the property, and preventing additional harm. This work is documented and typically covered by your policy. The full restoration plan awaits insurance approval, but emergency services don’t.
We handle most of the documentation for you. We’ll need your insurance policy information, photos of the damage (if you took any), and a description of what happened. From there, our team creates comprehensive documentation including photos, moisture readings, damage assessments, and detailed scope of work that meets insurance company standards.
Insurance typically covers “like kind and quality” replacement, restoring your home to its pre-loss condition. If you’d like upgrades (higher-end materials, design changes, or improvements) you can pay the difference out-of-pocket. We provide clear pricing for any upgrades so you understand exactly what’s covered by insurance and what would be an additional cost.
Most insurance companies don’t require multiple estimates, though you have the right to get them. What matters more is working with a restoration company that provides industry-standard documentation and has established relationships with insurance adjusters. Our detailed assessments and transparent pricing typically satisfy insurance requirements without needing additional estimates.
