Safety comes before the property
Move everyone away from immediate danger and call emergency services when fire, structural damage, active flooding, gas, or electrical hazards are present. Do not enter an unsafe building or attempt repairs that put you at risk.
Prevent additional damage when it is safe
Reasonable temporary steps—such as shutting off a safe water source, covering an opening, or moving undamaged property away from water—may help prevent the situation from getting worse. Avoid permanent repairs until the carrier has provided guidance.
Document before cleanup
Write down when the event happened, what you observed, and which emergency or mitigation companies responded. Those details are easier to remember on the first day than several weeks later.
- Take wide photos and close-up photos of the affected areas.
- Record video showing the path and extent of damage.
- Keep damaged items unless disposal is required for safety.
- Save receipts for emergency work, supplies, lodging, and other related expenses.
Contact the agency or carrier promptly
Have the policyholder name, property address, date of loss, contact information, and a short description ready. Coverage and claim decisions are made by the carrier under the policy terms, but the agency can help you understand how to begin.