What to capture at each stage
- Before anything moves
- Wide photos of each room, close-ups of the source, water lines on walls and any standing water. A short video walking through the area helps too.
- When calling the insurer
- Claim number, adjuster name, contact details and what they told you about mitigation and inspections.
- During the assessment
- A copy of the written plan, the moisture sketch, the water category and the list of materials proposed for removal.
- During removal
- Photos of materials before they are taken out, plus samples of flooring or cabinets if the insurer asks.
- During drying
- Daily readings, equipment lists and your own observations.
- At the end of mitigation
- Final readings showing materials reached the drying goal, and an invoice that matches the work.
- During repairs
- Repair estimates, change orders, receipts and photos of finished work.
Physical items to keep
- The failed part: hose, supply line, valve, fitting or water heater data plate photo.
- Plumber's invoice describing what failed and what was repaired.
- Receipts for emergency purchases such as fans, tarps, storage or hotel stays.
- A list of damaged belongings with approximate age and where they were bought.
- Any correspondence with an association, landlord or neighbor.
A simple folder structure
| Folder | Contents | Who usually provides it |
|---|---|---|
| 01 Source | Photos of the source, plumber invoice, failed part photos | You and the plumber |
| 02 Insurer | Claim number, adjuster contact, letters and emails | Insurer |
| 03 Mitigation | Assessment, moisture sketches, daily logs, final readings, invoice | Mitigation provider |
| 04 Contents | Damaged item list, photos, receipts | You |
| 05 Repairs | Estimates, contracts, change orders, completion photos | Repair contractor |
| 06 Extra costs | Hotel, meals, storage, rentals | You |
Questions for the adjuster
- Do you need to inspect before removal, or can emergency mitigation proceed now?
- Is there a limit on mold remediation or a separate deductible for water damage?
- Does my policy include additional living expenses if the house is not livable?
- Will mitigation and repairs be paid as separate parts of the claim?
- How will payments be issued if I have a mortgage?
Common questions
Should I write a short account of what happened?
Yes. While it is fresh, write a few paragraphs: when you noticed the water, what you saw, what you shut off, who you called and when. Date it and keep it in the source folder. Memories blur quickly over a long claim.
What if I already cleaned up before taking photos?
Photograph what is left, including removed materials in bags or the dumpster, wet marks and the failed part. Tell the adjuster honestly what was done before photos were taken and why.
General information for Lakewood, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.