Insurance Claims Help

Filing a Water Damage Claim — Step by Step

Most homeowner's insurance policies cover sudden, accidental water damage. The key is documenting the loss thoroughly and getting professional mitigation started quickly — your policy almost certainly includes language requiring you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage.

1. Stop the source. Shut off water at the main if you can do so safely. Turn off electricity to affected areas.
2. Document everything. Photograph and video the damage before anything is moved or cleaned. Save damaged items for the adjuster.
3. Call your carrier's claims line. Most have 24/7 numbers. Get a claim number — you'll reference it constantly.
4. Call DrySolve. We dispatch immediately to begin mitigation. Waiting on the adjuster before drying starts almost always makes the loss worse and can jeopardize coverage.
5. Save receipts. Temporary lodging, replacement essentials, even tarps from the hardware store — many policies reimburse these under Additional Living Expense (ALE) and emergency mitigation coverage.

What Your Policy Probably Covers

Standard HO-3 homeowner's policies (the most common type) generally cover:

• Burst pipes, supply line failures, appliance leaks (washer, dishwasher, water heater)
• Sudden roof leaks from wind, hail, or fallen trees
• Accidental overflow from sinks, tubs, or toilets
• Frozen pipe damage (if heat was maintained)
• Sewer backup — but only if you have the endorsement (often a separate rider)

What's Usually Excluded

• Flooding from external sources (rivers, storm surge) — needs separate flood insurance
• Gradual leaks or seepage that should have been noticed
• Damage from lack of maintenance (rotted shower pans, old plumbing)
• Groundwater intrusion through foundation cracks

Xactimate Documentation

Every estimate, photo log, and final invoice we produce uses Xactimate — the same software your adjuster uses. That alignment means fewer back-and-forth questions, faster approvals, and less chance of disputed line items. We're not negotiating from a different playbook than your carrier; we're speaking their language.

Direct Billing

Once you authorize it, we bill your carrier directly for covered work. You pay your deductible to us; the rest goes through the insurance process. You're not floating thousands of dollars while the claim winds through approval.