Water damage can be catastrophic for any business. Getting started with the water damage restoration process as soon as possible is vital to minimize downtime and revenue loss. The experts at SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison, a leading water damage restoration company, advise business owners to approach the insurance claims process with a step-by-step approach to speed things along.
How to Complete the Commercial Water Damage Process
#1 File an Insurance Claim and Call a Commercial Water Damage Restoration Company
The first step is to start the insurance claims process to get the ball rolling. Doing so can help guide the rest of the restoration process as some providers have policyholders follow specific steps. Call number two should be to a commercial water damage restoration company.
Delaying the water removal process beyond 24 to 48 hours can lead to secondary damage, such as mold, and may even lead to a full or partial claim denial if the insurance company determines some of the damage was due to lack of action.
#2 Document the Damages
After stopping the flow of water (if possible) and calling a commercial water damage restoration company, the next step is to document the damage thoroughly. Take photos and videos. This process might also include counting losses in inventory and collecting related receipts for damaged items.
The goal is to provide an accurate picture of the water damage for insurance purposes before beginning any repairs. A reputable water damage restoration company can also assist with this process by taking additional photos during the restoration process and providing professional statements and cost estimates.
#3 Meet With the Insurance Adjuster
An insurance claims adjuster is responsible for confirming and gathering additional evidence of the damage and restoration process. They also determine whether the damage is covered, and if so, the cost to repair the damage. While there's no set time for an insurance adjuster to arrive, typically, it's within two weeks of the incident.
#4 Settle or Negotiate With the Insurance Company
Once the insurance adjuster completes their investigation, they will submit a recommendation for a settlement amount. You can accept this offer, attempt to negotiate or hire a lawyer to do so for you. Generally, payment is issued within 30 days of the initial insurance claim. However, disputes over the degree of water damage or restoration costs can prolong the process.
Working with an experienced commercial restoration company can be invaluable in this respect, as they will have the know-how to submit a successful damage claim and provide the right evidence to challenge a low settlement offer.
About SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison
SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison approaches the damage restoration process with a goal to make it “look like it never even happened.” Their licensed professionals are always happy to help with the insurance claims process. They are available 24 hours a day for reliable water, fire, and storm damage restoration as well as commercial cleaning services in Farmers Branch, TX, and the surrounding areas.
Call SERVPRO at (972) 233-8400 or follow them on Facebook for more tips to tackle the commercial damage restoration process.
