When your home suffers severe damage—whether from a fire, flood, or natural disaster—your instinct might be to grab a mop or hammer and start fixing things right away. But acting too quickly can hurt your chances of receiving a full insurance payout. If you’re a homeowner in New York or New Jersey, understanding what not to do after a loss is just as important as knowing what to do.
Below are five common mistakes property owners make after damage, and how you can avoid them to protect your insurance claim.
1. Jumping into Repairs Before Your Insurance Company Has Been Notified
It’s natural to want to clean up the mess, but stop and call your insurer first. Most insurance policies require a damage inspection before any repairs begin. If you start fixing or replacing things too early, your insurance company might deny parts of your claim or reduce your payout because they didn’t have the chance to document the damage themselves.
2. Throwing Away Damaged Belongings Too Soon
Don’t toss anything—furniture, electronics, appliances, even clothing—until your insurer gives you the green light. These items are evidence of your loss, and getting rid of them too early could make it harder to prove the value of your claim. Keep receipts, bank statements, and anything else that shows what the items were worth.
3. Failing to Protect the Property From More Damage
After the initial damage, it’s your responsibility to prevent further harm. That doesn’t mean you should start full repairs—but you should take basic steps to secure the property. This could include boarding up broken windows, covering the roof with a tarp, or shutting off the water to prevent additional flooding. Failing to do this could give your insurer a reason to reduce your settlement.
4. Skipping the Inventory Process
Many homeowners focus on the obvious damage but overlook other areas like basements, garages, or outdoor structures. A thorough walkthrough of your entire property is crucial. Document everything in writing and with photos, even if the damage seems minor. A detailed inventory helps back up your claim and ensures you’re not missing compensation for anything lost or destroyed.
5. Trying to Handle the Entire Claim Alone
Insurance policies are full of fine print, and navigating a major claim on your own can be overwhelming. A licensed public adjuster can represent you—not the insurance company—and take on the hard work of managing your claim. From documenting the damage to negotiating with the insurer, an experienced public adjuster can help you get the settlement you truly deserve.
Key Takeaways for Homeowners
Insurance companies have teams of experts looking out for their best interests. You should have someone in your corner, too. Avoiding these mistakes can make a big difference in how quickly your claim is processed—and how much you recover. If you’re dealing with property damage in New York or New Jersey, Direct Public Adjusters is here to help guide you every step of the way. Call us anytime, 24/7.