Filing a water damage insurance claim can feel overwhelming — especially when you're already dealing with the stress of a flooded home. Here are 7 tips from Colorado restoration professionals to help you navigate the process and maximize your claim.

Tip 1: Call Your Restoration Company Before Your Insurance Company

Your first call should be to a professional restoration company, not your insurance company. Why? Because your policy requires you to mitigate further damage — and the clock starts immediately. A restoration company will begin emergency extraction and drying while you handle the insurance call. They'll also document everything from the start, which is critical for your claim.

Tip 2: Document Everything Before Cleanup Begins

Take photos and video of all visible damage before any cleanup begins. Capture standing water levels, affected materials, damaged belongings, and the source of the water. This documentation is your evidence — without it, insurance companies may dispute the extent of the damage.

Tip 3: Don't Throw Anything Away

Even if something is clearly ruined, don't dispose of it until your insurance adjuster has seen it. Damaged belongings are part of your claim. Keep everything — or at minimum, photograph it thoroughly before disposal.

Tip 4: Understand What Your Policy Covers

Standard homeowner's insurance covers sudden and accidental water damage — burst pipes, appliance failures, and storm damage. It typically does NOT cover flooding from outside the home (that requires separate flood insurance) or damage from long-term neglect. Know your policy before you call.

Tip 5: Get a Detailed Written Estimate

Your restoration company should provide a detailed written estimate that itemizes all work to be performed. This estimate is submitted to your insurance company and becomes the basis for your claim. Vague estimates lead to disputes — detailed estimates get approved.

Tip 6: Keep Records of All Expenses

If you have to stay in a hotel, eat out, or purchase replacement items during restoration, keep all receipts. Many policies include Additional Living Expense (ALE) coverage that reimburses these costs. You can't claim what you can't document.

Tip 7: Don't Accept the First Settlement Offer Without Review

Insurance companies sometimes make initial settlement offers that don't fully cover the cost of restoration. Review the offer carefully against your restoration company's estimate. If there's a significant gap, ask your restoration company to help you document the discrepancy and negotiate with the adjuster.