Questions to Ask Your Insurance Adjuster After Water Damage

The adjuster's visit shapes your claim. Going in with the right questions and the right paperwork helps you understand your coverage and avoid surprises later. Here's a checklist for homeowners in Charlotte, Concord, Indian Trail, Matthews, Monroe, Stallings and Waxhaw.

Before the Adjuster Arrives

• Find your policy number and the declarations page.
• Take wide and close-up photos and video of every wet area and the source.
• Make a list of damaged items, with rough ages if you know them.
• Keep receipts for anything you spent to stop the damage.
• Write down when you found the damage and what you did about it.
• Get moisture readings if you can. They show how far the water spread beyond what you can see.

Questions to Ask Your Insurance Adjuster

1. Is this damage covered under my policy, and which section applies?
2. What is my deductible for this claim?
3. Do I have coverage for additional living expenses if we can't stay in the home?
4. What do you need from me, and by when?
5. Can I start drying out and removing wet materials now, and what should I document first?
6. Can I choose my own restoration contractor?
7. Will you pay the contractor directly, or will payment come to me?
8. How do you handle damage that's found after work begins?
9. When should I expect your estimate, and who do I call with questions?
10. Will you send your decision and estimate in writing?

During the Visit

• Walk the adjuster through every affected room, including closets, cabinets and the crawl space.
• Point out the source of the water and anything that's still wet.
• Take your own notes, with the adjuster's name and contact information.
• Ask for anything important in writing.

After the Visit

Read the estimate carefully when it arrives and compare it with the damage you documented. If something is missing, send your adjuster photos and notes and ask them to review it. If the claim is denied, see what to do after a denied water damage claim. Wondering what drives the cost of the work? Read what affects water damage restoration cost.

How a Free Inspection Helps

We find the likely source, take moisture readings, and photograph and write up what we find. You'll have clear notes on the damage before you talk to your adjuster. Our water damage insurance help page covers what NC policies usually cover. Haven't filed a claim yet? We offer a free inspection before you file, so you know what you're dealing with when you talk to your insurer.

Master Restoration serves homeowners in Charlotte, Concord, Indian Trail, Matthews, Monroe, Stallings, and Waxhaw. See all the North Carolina areas we serve for more.