Part 1 covered the 2 main concepts — proving the loss and defining the scope.
Today we’ll look at what to do BEFORE you file a claim.
Why it matters: Simply put, if you need to file a claim you should and if you don’t need to file a claim you shouldn’t.
🤔 How do you decide?
If a storm or other event caused obvious damage, do the following:
👉 Protect your home from further damage — this is called your “Duty to Mitigate.”
- Whether that’s a tarp on your roof or boarding up a window, this needs to be done by you or someone you hire.
👉 Document, document, document!
- Take pictures AND video.
- Make sure pictures show the context — don’t just get close up pics — step back and show the surroundings.
👉 Call a contractor you trust.
- A good contractor can help you determine if you have enough damage to justify filing a claim.
- And can help you by defining the full scope of the work.
✅ For your Smart Homeowner list
- At least once a year, get good pictures and video of the condition of your property and its contents.
- That can serve as evidence for determining a date of loss.
- Have a roofer inspect and document the condition of your roof every year.
Best,
Travis