The short answer
Start with Safety
Before you document anything, make sure the area is safe. If water is near electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the power at the breaker if you can do so safely. If the water came from a burst pipe, shut off the main water valve if you know where it is and can reach it.
Never enter a room with standing water if you suspect electrical hazards. Your safety comes first; documentation can wait a few minutes if needed.
Photograph Everything
Use your phone or a camera to take clear, well-lit photos and videos of every damaged area. Capture the source of the water, the extent of the damage, and any personal belongings affected. Show the depth of water, stains on walls or ceilings, and warped flooring.
Include a wide shot of each room, then close-ups of specific damage. If possible, place a ruler or a common object like a coin in the frame to show scale. Also photograph the condition of the room before you move any furniture or begin cleanup, because once you start moving things, the original damage may be altered.
- Take photos of the water source, such as a leaky roof or burst pipe
- Capture all affected walls, floors, ceilings, and furniture
- Record the date and time of each photo or video
- Include close-ups of stains, swelling, or discoloration
- Photograph any temporary repairs you make, like placing a bucket under a leak
- Keep a written log of when the damage occurred and what you did
Make a Detailed List
Write down every item that was damaged, including furniture, electronics, clothing, and documents. For each item, note its approximate age, purchase price if you remember it, and current condition. This list will help you when you discuss the claim with your insurance company.
Also note the extent of structural damage, such as soaked drywall, stained ceilings, or damaged hardwood floors. If you have receipts or photos of the items from before the damage, gather those as well. The more detailed your list, the easier it is for the claims process to move forward.
Preserve Evidence
Do not throw away damaged items until your insurance company has had a chance to inspect them or you have their permission to discard them. If you must remove items for safety, keep them in a separate area and photograph them first. The same goes for damaged building materials like drywall or carpet.
If you need to make temporary repairs to prevent further damage, such as covering a broken window or patching a roof leak, keep all receipts and take photos of the repairs. These costs may be part of your claim, but your insurer decides what is covered. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
File Your Claim
Once you have your documentation ready, contact your insurance company to start the claim. Provide them with your photos, videos, and itemized list. Be honest about the cause and extent of the damage; exaggerating or hiding details can hurt your claim.
If your home has significant water damage, you may also need to bring in local water damage pros for an inspection. They can help identify hidden moisture and assess structural issues. Their role is to assess and repair, not to negotiate with your insurer.
- Contact your insurance company as soon as possible
- Provide your documentation and a clear description of the damage
- Ask what additional information they need
- Keep a copy of all correspondence with your insurer
- Follow up if you do not hear back within a few days
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (469) 698-4610Frequently asked questions
What should I do before taking photos?
Ensure the area is safe by turning off electricity if needed and stopping the water source if you can. Move any valuable items to a dry place, but do not clean up the damage until you have photographed it. Safety first, then documentation.
How long do I have to file a water damage claim?
Check your insurance policy for specific deadlines, as they vary. Many policies require you to report damage promptly, so it is sensible to file as soon as you have documented everything. Waiting too long could affect your claim, so act quickly.
Can I clean up before the insurance adjuster sees the damage?
You can make temporary repairs to prevent further damage, like placing a tarp over a leak, but do not do major cleanup or throw away damaged items until the adjuster inspects them. Take photos before any cleanup to preserve evidence.