Hour 1: Stop further damage
Tarp the roof, shut off water, board windows. Insurers expect you to mitigate further loss; bills for reasonable mitigation are reimbursable.
Day 1: Document everything
Photograph and video every damaged item and area before cleanup. Save receipts for tarps, hotels, food, and tools.
Day 1–2: File the claim
Call the insurer's claims line, get a claim number, and ask about advance payments for additional living expenses.
Avoid early signing
Do not sign repair contracts assigning your insurance benefits without reading carefully. Get multiple bids before authorizing major work.
Key takeaways
- Mitigate damage immediately — and keep receipts.
- Document everything before cleanup.
- File quickly to lock in advance ALE payments.
- Beware assignment-of-benefits contracts.
This article is for general educational purposes and is not legal, financial, or insurance advice. Consult a licensed professional for decisions specific to your situation.