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What to Do Immediately After Storm, Fire, or Water Damage

When disaster hits—whether from a hurricane, fire, or burst pipe—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. In Florida, where extreme weather is common, knowing exactly what to do in the first 24–48 hours can make or break your insurance claim.

This quick guide walks you through the critical first steps to protect your property, your safety, and your insurance payout.

1. Prioritize Safety First

Before anything else, make sure it's safe to re-enter your home. Look out for:

Downed power lines
Structural damage
Standing water with electrical risks
Fire hotspots or smoke

Call 911 or local emergency services if there’s any immediate danger.

2. Document the Damage Thoroughly

Take photos and videos of every affected area—before you clean or throw anything away. This visual evidence will be critical for your insurance claim and could increase your payout significantly.

📸 Pro Tip: Include timestamped images and take wide shots along with close-ups of damaged items.

3. Stop Further Damage (If Safe to Do So)

You’re required under most insurance policies to mitigate further damage. This might include:

Tarping a damaged roof
Turning off the water supply
Board-up services after fire or vandalism

Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or materials purchased—you may be reimbursed.

4. Contact a Licensed Public Adjuster in Florida

Before calling your insurance company, talk to a licensed public adjuster. They represent you, not the insurer, and can guide you on:

Proper documentation
Filing the claim accurately
Negotiating a higher settlement

A public adjuster helps level the playing field when you’re going up against a billion-dollar insurance company.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company (Carefully)

Once you're prepared with proper documentation and support, contact your insurance provider to file a claim. Be factual, brief, and avoid speculating about the cause or extent of the damage—leave that to the experts.

6. Keep a Claim Diary

Document every phone call, email, or conversation with your insurer. Note the date, time, name of the representative, and what was discussed. This can protect you from delays or disputes later.

7. Don’t Rush Repairs Without Approval

Avoid signing with contractors immediately—especially if they pressure you. Only proceed with major repairs once your adjuster and insurance company approve the work in writing.

Florida's humid climate can worsen water and mold damage quickly. Additionally, state deadlines apply to insurance claims—often just a few days or weeks to notify your insurer. Acting fast protects both your health and your claim.