Nobody teaches you how to file a property damage claim. It’s not like they cover it in school or anything. So when your home gets damaged, you’re basically figuring it out as you go, while also being stressed out and emotional. It’s no wonder people make mistakes.
Here are the big ones I see over and over—and how to avoid them.
Not Taking Enough Photos
Everyone’s first instinct is to start cleaning up. You want your house back to normal. But hold on—before you touch anything, document it. Take way more photos than you think you need. Get close-ups, wide shots, different angles. Capture the little stuff too, not just the big obvious damage.
Because here’s what happens: two weeks later, the insurance adjuster asks for proof that your couch was ruined or that the water reached the baseboards. If you already threw everything out and scrubbed the floors, you’ve got nothing to show them. And then they might not believe you, or they’ll lowball the estimate.
Tossing Damaged Stuff Too Fast
I get it—that burnt chair is depressing to look at, and that moldy carpet needs to go. But damaged items are evidence. Keep them until the insurance adjuster has actually seen them and documented them. Some companies will even require written permission before you dispose of things. Check first, or you might hurt your own claim.
Skipping the Fine Print
Your insurance policy is basically a contract, and buried in there are all sorts of important details about what’s covered, what’s not, and how much you’ll get. Most people don’t read it until something goes wrong. Then they discover their policy has a weirdly low limit on jewelry, or doesn’t cover certain types of water damage, or has a deductible they forgot about.
Read it now. Highlight the important parts. Know what you’re working with.
Taking the First Number They Give You
Insurance companies almost always start with a low offer. It’s just how it works. They’re hoping you’ll accept it quickly and move on. But that first estimate often misses things or undervalues the damage.
You’re allowed to push back. Get your own estimates from contractors. Point out what they missed. Don’t feel bad about negotiating—it’s expected.
Going It Alone
You don’t have to be a hero here. Public adjusters are professionals who work for you, not the insurance company. They know how to document damage properly, what to look for that you might miss, and how to negotiate with insurers. Yeah, they take a percentage of your settlement, but a lot of people end up with more money even after paying the fee because they catch things and advocate for you in ways you might not know how to do yourself.
Dealing with a property damage claim and feeling overwhelmed? Contact Global Public Adjusters to learn more about how we can help you get the full settlement you’re entitled to.
