What to Do Immediately After Property Damage

Experiencing property damage can be stressful and disorienting. Whether caused by a hurricane in Florida, a hail storm in Texas, flooding in Louisiana, or a house fire anywhere across our six-state service area, knowing exactly what to do in the first hours can protect both your safety and your insurance claim.

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

Your safety and the safety of your family or employees must always come first. If the damage involves fire, structural collapse, flooding, or gas leaks, evacuate the property immediately and contact emergency services at 911. Do not re-enter a structurally compromised building until it has been cleared by authorities.

Step 2: Document Everything Before Touching Anything

Before you begin any cleanup or repairs, document the full extent of the damage with photos and video. Walk through every affected room and capture:

• Damaged walls, ceilings, floors, and structural elements
• Broken windows, doors, and roof sections
• Water intrusion, flooding, and standing water
• Damaged personal belongings, furniture, and appliances
• The exterior of the building from multiple angles
• Any visible mold, smoke staining, or fire damage

This documentation is critical evidence when filing your insurance claim. The more thorough your record, the harder it becomes for an insurer to dispute the scope of the loss.

Step 3: Prevent Further Damage

Most insurance policies require policyholders to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage following a loss. Temporary measures may include:

• Covering roof holes with tarps to prevent water intrusion
• Boarding broken windows to prevent weather and security exposure
• Shutting off water supply to stop ongoing water damage
• Removing standing water with a wet vacuum or pump

Keep all receipts for emergency repairs. These expenses are often reimbursable under your policy.

Step 4: Contact a Public Adjuster Before Accepting Any Offer

Before you speak with your insurance company's adjuster or accept any settlement offer, consult a licensed public adjuster. Insurance company adjusters work for the insurer. A public adjuster works exclusively for you, ensuring the full scope of your damage is identified, documented, and properly valued.

This single step is often the difference between a settlement that covers your actual losses and one that falls tens of thousands of dollars short.

Step 5: File Your Insurance Claim Promptly

Insurance policies have claim reporting deadlines. Notify your insurer as soon as possible after the damage occurs. A public adjuster can help you prepare and submit a complete, well-documented claim from the start — reducing the risk of delays, disputes, and underpayment.