Insurance Tips for Property Owners
How to Navigate Claims After Fire, Water, or Mold Damage

  Dealing with property damage is stressful enough—trying to handle the insurance side of things on top of that can feel overwhelming. Many homeowners and property managers are unsure when to file a claim, what to document, or how to avoid getting underpaid or denied.

  Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you navigate property insurance claims with confidence—and avoid common pitfalls.

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1. Document Everything from the Start

  Before you touch anything or start cleaning up, take photos and videos of the damage. Cover all affected areas from multiple angles, and capture:

 

• Water damage or standing water

 

• Burn marks, soot, or smoke stains

 

• Mold growth or water stains

 

• Damaged furniture, appliances, and flooring

  The more visual proof you have, the easier it is to justify your claim.

  Pro Tip: If possible, take “before” photos of your property for future reference—even if there’s no damage. It helps establish what was normal.

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2. File Your Claim Promptly

  Most insurance policies require you to report damage within a certain window, often 24 to 72 hours. Call your insurance provider as soon as possible and ask:
 

• What’s covered under your policy

 

• What your deductible is

 

• Whether you’re covered for temporary housing or ALE (Additional Living Expenses)

 

• Whether they require their own adjuster or contractor

Delays in filing can lead to reduced payouts or claim denial.

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3. Mitigate Further Damage

  Even while you’re waiting for the adjuster, you’re responsible for preventing further loss. This could mean:
 

• Tarping a roof

 

• Turning off the water

 

• Removing wet rugs or belongings from standing water

 

• Boarding up broken windows

  Professional restoration companies (like ours) can step in quickly and provide temporary protection while also documenting what was done for your claim and your peace of mind.

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4. Get a Written Estimate from a Licensed Contractor

  Insurance adjusters will usually provide their own estimate, but it’s always a good idea to get a second opinion. A licensed restoration or construction company can give you a detailed scope of work and a more realistic cost breakdown, especially for fire, smoke, or mold remediation.

  We often create side-by-side comparisons showing what’s needed versus what was initially approved—this helps you request a supplement if the first offer is too low.

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5. Ask About Supplements or Reassessments

  If the insurance company’s first estimate doesn’t fully cover the damage or scope of work, you’re allowed to submit a supplement with additional documentation, photos, and a contractor’s estimate.
Many property owners don’t realize this, and accept low settlements that leave them paying out of pocket.

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6. Keep All Receipts and Records

  Save every receipt related to the damage or cleanup:

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• Temporary lodging or meals

 

• Cleaning supplies or equipment

 

• Contractor invoices or deposits

 

• Testing or inspection costs

 

• Communication logs with your adjuster

Organized records help prove your expenses and ensure maximum reimbursement.

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7. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

  Insurance policies are full of confusing language, but you have a right to understand what’s covered.

 

Don’t hesitate to ask your adjuster:

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• Why wasn’t something covered

 

• How was depreciation calculated

 

• What documentation do they need from your contractor

 

• How to appeal a denied claim

  If you feel stuck, you can also bring in a public adjuster or request help from your contractor or restoration team. At Mulliner, we regularly assist clients with documentation and walkthroughs to make the process easier.

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Final Thoughts

  You don’t have to be an insurance expert to protect your property—you just need to stay organized, act quickly, and know when to get help. With the right documentation and support, you can get the coverage you deserve and move forward with cleanup, repairs, or rebuilding without unnecessary stress.