Water Damage - Damage Assessment:

Assessing the damage to your property

If possible, immediately after eliminating the most hazardous conditions (turning off the power, gas and water), and taking steps to protect and secure your assets and personal belongings, inspect the property more closely. Walk around the house and lot and observe. Grab a pen and paper and begin to write down notes. If you have a camera, take as many pictures as possible. These items, conveyed to the insurance adjuster, will help speed the repair of your home. Use this checklist to help you make observations and notes:

Exterior Damage Checklist:

Any missing or damaged roof shingles?
Is there bent or missing flashing?
Is there gutter damage?
Is the chimney intact or damaged?
Is the stucco stained or cracked and loose?
Is the brick wet or stained?
Are the siding boards intact, warped or loose?
Are there signs of water intrusion through the windows?
Are there signs of water intrusion through basement windows or window wells?

Attic Damage Checklist:

Is any of the insulation wet or damaged?
Are any of the vents damaged or missing?
Do you see any daylight through the roof?
Do HVAC ducts have condensation or is insulation wet?
Are structural elements wet, rotting or warping?

Crawlspace / Basement Damage Checklist

Are all of the foundation walls intact?
Is the basement or crawl space dry or wet?
Are the floors above the basement stained or dry?
Is the ductwork dry and intact or stained or damaged?
Is the furnace operating or water damaged?
Is the water heater tipped over, disconnected from the service line or otherwise damaged?

Interior / Contents Damage Checklist

What rooms are affected?
Are the walls intact?
Is the ceiling leaking?
Is there water on the floor?
Are any personal contents damaged?

Once you have taken notes and have a good idea of the extent of the water damage, proceed to the next step to contact the correct professionals to ensure your damage is cleaned and restored promptly.

Next Step: Who To Call