Insurance Claims FAQ

Yes, most homeowners insurance covers sudden and accidental water damage like burst pipes, appliance failures, and accidental overflow. However, it typically does NOT cover: flood damage (requires separate policy), gradual damage from neglected maintenance, sewer backups (may need endorsement), or damage from lack of maintenance. Coverage details vary by policy.

Homeowners insurance covers internal water damage (burst pipes, appliance failures, roof leaks from storms). Flood insurance covers external flooding (rising water, storm surge, overflowing bodies of water). You need BOTH in South Florida. Homeowners insurance will not cover any flood damage, even during hurricanes.

Steps: 1) Document damage immediately with photos/videos, 2) Stop the water source if possible, 3) Contact your insurance company to report the claim, 4) Don't throw away damaged items until documented, 5) Make emergency repairs to prevent further damage (keep receipts), 6) Get a professional assessment, 7) Meet with the insurance adjuster. We help with steps 5-7.

Possibly. One claim may not significantly impact rates, but multiple claims can increase premiums or affect insurability. However, not filing legitimate claims means paying for repairs yourself. Consider: claim size vs. deductible, damage severity, and whether it's a covered peril. Major damage from sudden events is generally worth filing.

A deductible is your out-of-pocket cost before insurance pays. For example, with a $1,000 deductible on $10,000 damage, insurance pays $9,000. In Florida, many policies have percentage-based hurricane/wind deductibles (2-5% of coverage) that can be substantial. Know your deductible before filing claims.

Limited coverage. Most policies cover mold resulting from covered water damage (burst pipe), but many have mold damage caps ($5,000-$10,000). Mold from flooding (without flood insurance), neglected maintenance, or humidity is typically not covered. Some insurers offer additional mold coverage as an endorsement.

We bill your insurance company directly, so you don't pay large upfront costs. You're responsible for your deductible and any non-covered items, but we handle invoicing, documentation, and communication with your insurer. This makes restoration more affordable and reduces your stress during an emergency.

Most policies require "prompt" notification - typically within 24-72 hours of discovering damage. Formal claim documentation deadlines vary (30-60 days is common). However, the sooner you file, the better. Delayed claims can be denied or complicated by additional damage. We recommend filing immediately.

Options include: 1) Request a detailed explanation in writing, 2) Review your policy for covered perils, 3) Provide additional documentation, 4) Request re-inspection, 5) File a complaint with Florida's Department of Financial Services, 6) Hire a public adjuster, 7) Consult an attorney. Many denials can be overturned with proper documentation.

A public adjuster works for YOU (not the insurance company) to handle claims. They document damage, negotiate with insurers, and advocate for maximum settlements. They typically charge 10-15% of the claim. Consider hiring one for large, complex, or disputed claims. We work with both company adjusters and public adjusters.

Yes, most policies include Additional Living Expenses (ALE) or Loss of Use coverage for reasonable costs if your home is uninhabitable during covered repairs. This typically covers hotels, rental housing, additional food costs, and other reasonable expenses. Keep all receipts and document why you can't stay home.

Replacement Cost Value (RCV) pays to replace items at current prices. Actual Cash Value (ACV) pays replacement cost minus depreciation. RCV is better coverage but costs more. For a 10-year-old carpet, RCV pays for new carpet; ACV might pay 30% of that. Check which coverage you have before a loss occurs.

Insurance companies don't typically require multiple estimates, and you have the right to choose your own contractor. However, insurers base payments on their own estimates (often using Xactimate software). We use the same software and can negotiate with adjusters if their estimate is too low.

Essential documentation: photos/videos of all damage (before cleanup), inventory of damaged items with values, receipts for emergency repairs, your insurance policy, proof of ownership (receipts, photos of items before damage), contractor estimates, and any correspondence with insurance. We help create comprehensive documentation.

We can provide photographs, moisture records, restoration scopes, estimates, invoices, and project updates to you or authorized claim professionals. DryRush does not adjust claims, interpret coverage, negotiate settlements, or guarantee insurer payment.