Here in Sydney or NSW where strong storms are an annual event, building owners often see property damage resulting from wind, rain, and flooding. It can be a frustrating experience to have repairs completed quickly when dealing with insurance company policies and procedures. To add to the confusion, insurance companies become inundated with claims following a storm, and it can be weeks or months before the damage can be assessed, approved, and repaired.

Finding unexpected water damage on your home or property can be an unpleasant surprise. Figuring out what to do next can be equally daunting. From making sure your insurance covers the damage and lodging a claim, to getting and submitting quotes, to finally booking in repairs, this handy guide will help you navigate the process as quickly and easily as possible.

Tip Number 1: Establish the cause, verify coverage, and lodge a claim

It’s important to know if your insurance company will cover the type of damage incurred on your property, as the cause can sometimes affect coverage. Although you may believe it is part of your policy, it’s best to contact your insurer to inform them of the damage and ask for any information as to your financial responsibility. If you are unable to determine the cause, it may be a good idea to contact a licensed contractor specializing in that portion of the home. Once you’ve verified that your insurance company will cover the damage, you should lodge a claim. This should all be done as quickly as possible following your discovery of the damaged areas. After a storm or disaster, the company will be inundated with claims. Filing sooner will help ensure that your claim gets processed expediently. Retain the claim number to make it easier to obtain quotes for repair.

Tip Number 2: Get quotes and submit for payment

As soon as you’ve filed your claim, you should start gathering quote information. Make sure you choose reputable contractors. Using an unlicensed roofer or painter can result in shoddy workmanship. Be sure to include the claim number when seeking a quote, as this will aid the insurer in processing your claim.

Make sure you request an estimated completion time when you do this, especially if the damage is the result of an event that may have affected many property owners. Once you’ve found a contractor for the work, submit their quote to the insurance company. Once accepted, the insurer will determine the level of damage for prioritization. If extensive, it may be processed earlier. This is another reason why it is important to lodge your claim as early as possible. Don’t wait for one repair to be completed before getting an estimate on the next one. If you have one repair ready to go immediately following the one prior, the entire process will be faster.

Tip Number 3: Book your repairs

Depending on the extent of the repairs and the insurance company’s payout policies, you will either receive payment or approval for payment upon claim approval. At this point, you should arrange the repairs yourself. Waiting for the insurer to schedule it is a pretty reliable way to ensure it will take longer. Be very clear to both the insurance company and those doing repairs that you expect your claim to processed quickly. When scheduling repairs, make sure you get solid commencement and completion dates. This way you can schedule each company in order, which ensures a seamless repair process.

If you follow these guidelines, taking care of your water damage problem will be hassle-free. King Painting is happy to help you through the plastering and painting portion. We have experienced and reputable workers waiting to help you out.

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