What to Do in the First 24 Hours
The first 24 hours after a loss set the foundation for your entire claim. Safety first, then mitigation, then documentation, then reporting. Mistakes here can quietly cost you thousands.
Make sure everyone is safe
Before anything else, get people and pets out of harm's way. If there is an active fire, flooding, or structural collapse, leave and call 911. Do not return for possessions. No homeowners policy covers injuries from ignoring emergency response orders.
Stop further damage if you can do so safely
Carriers expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent the loss from getting worse. This duty to mitigate appears in most standard property policies. Examples include tarping roof holes, shutting off water valves, and boarding windows. Keep receipts for emergency materials, these mitigation costs are typically reimbursable.
Document before you clean up
Photograph and video everything before you touch, move, repair, or throw out a single damaged item. Include wide shots of rooms and close-ups of individual items with visible serial numbers. Time-stamped phone photos are accepted by major carriers.
Report to your carrier promptly
Most policies require loss reporting "as soon as practicable", typically within 24-72 hours. Have your declarations page ready and stick to factual answers without speculating on cause or fault.
Start a claim log on day one
Keep a running log of every conversation, every email, every adjuster visit, with dates, names, times, and commitments made. This contemporaneous record is your single best protection if the claim is ever disputed.
Do not begin permanent repairs yet
Emergency mitigation is acceptable, but permanent repairs should wait for adjuster inspection to assess scope and cost. Starting permanent work too early can leave the carrier unable to verify the damage, and give them grounds to reduce your payout.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions
How do I document my belongings before a loss occurs?
Create a home inventory with photos, video walkthroughs, and written descriptions of your belongings. Store a copy offsite or in the cloud so it is accessible after a disaster.
Should I make temporary repairs before the adjuster visits?
Reasonable temporary repairs that prevent further damage are generally expected by carriers, with everything documented first and all receipts saved. Do not make permanent repairs until the adjuster has completed the inspection.
What are the most important steps to take immediately after a loss?
Contact your insurer promptly, document everything, make only emergency temporary repairs, and keep records of all related expenses from day one.