Water damage can be a major headache for property owners in Florida. Not only is it a massive hassle to deal with, but it can also be quite expensive to repair. When handling water damage, it's crucial to know what to expect from the property adjuster. This blog post will describe how an adjuster assesses water damage in Florida.
If you're a property owner in Florida, water damage is probably something you're all too familiar with, whether it's from a hurricane, a severe storm, or a broken pipe.
Having clear expectations regarding what your property adjuster will be looking for is critical in understanding your insurance claim benefits. It'll also help you be better prepared for the adjuster's visit.
So, what does a property adjuster examine when evaluating water damage? Let's have a look.
While every home in Florida is different, there are some general characteristics that an adjuster will consider when assessing water damage.
The very first thing an adjuster will want to know is how the water damage occurred. Was it from a hurricane? A severe storm? A broken pipe? Knowing the source of the damage will help the adjuster determine the extent of the coverage.
Three types of water can cause damage to your home or business: clean, gray, and black. Clean water is typically from a broken pipe or appliance. Gray water is slightly contaminated and can come from a toilet bowl or washing machine. Black water is the most dangerous and can contain sewage or other contaminants.
Once the adjuster has determined the source and type of water damage, they'll want to assess the severity of the damage. This is typically done by measuring the depth of the water and determining how many rooms or areas are affected. The more comprehensive the damage, the more expensive it will be to repair.
The adjuster will also want to know the estimated amount of damage. This can be done by taking pictures and videos of the damaged areas. The adjuster will also likely ask for repair estimates from contractors.
When the adjuster comes to appraise the damage, you can do a few things to make their job easier.
First, ensure you have all of your documentation in order. This includes any estimates or receipts for repairs that have already been made.
Second, be available to answer any questions the adjuster may have. The more information you can provide, the better.
Lastly, be polite and respectful. Remember, the adjuster is just doing their job. Please give them the necessary information, and be patient while they're working.
Dealing with water damage is never fun, but knowing what to expect from the adjuster can make the process a little less stressful. Schedule a free inspection with a reputable public adjuster in Florida to get started on the road to recovery.