Safety first: if there is fire, gas smell, or electrical risk near water, leave and call 911 or your utility first.
- Report promptly. Many policies ask for prompt notice.
- Mitigate. Policies generally expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent more damage, such as stopping water and starting drying.
- Photograph first. Capture the source, every affected room, and damaged belongings.
- Keep receipts. Fans, tarps, hotel stays, and emergency repairs.
- Make an inventory. List damaged items with approximate age and value.
- Get written estimates. From the restoration contractor and any repair trades.
- Keep a log. Date, time, and summary of every call with your insurer or adjuster.
Questions to ask your insurer
- Is this type of water damage covered under my policy?
- Do I need approval before mitigation work starts?
- What is my deductible?
- Is there coverage for temporary housing?
- How will mold-related costs be handled?
Read before you sign
Some contractors ask you to sign an assignment of benefits or a direction to pay. Read it carefully and ask questions before signing. Verify any contractor's license at roc.az.gov.
Frequently asked questions
Do you help with insurance claims?
No. We are a referral service. Talk with your insurer or agent about your policy.
Can I choose my own contractor?
Usually you can. Ask your insurer about their process.
More guides
- Water damage: what to do in the first 24 hours
- Water heater leaking? Limit the damage
- Swamp cooler leaks and mold
- Monsoon prep checklist for Tucson homes
- Slab leak signs in Tucson homes
- Mold after a leak: what to know
- How to vet a restoration contractor in Arizona
- Roof leak or plumbing leak?
- Preventing burst pipes during a Tucson freeze
- Smoke odor and soot after a small fire
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