When disaster strikes in your home—whether it’s a burst pipe, a broken supply line, or a major leak—your first instinct might be to fix it yourself. After all, you’re handy, and a trip to Home Depot for a few parts seems like a cost-effective solution. However, if you’re planning to file an insurance claim, this DIY approach could end up costing you thousands. Let’s break down why hiring a professional can be the best financial decision when dealing with insurance claims.
Why Hiring a Professional is Critical for Insurance Claims
Most homeowners don’t realize that insurance companies scrutinize every detail of a claim. If they find any reason to deny or minimize your payout, they will. One of the key reasons claims get underpaid or denied is a lack of proper documentation. Here’s where a licensed plumber or contractor can save you big:
- Expert Documentation: A licensed professional provides an invoice and a detailed report explaining what caused the issue, what repairs were necessary, and why. This is critical in proving your loss to the insurance company.
- Preventing Claim Denials: Insurance carriers often reject claims when they suspect improper repairs. A professional ensures that the work is done correctly and meets industry standards, leaving no room for the insurance company to dispute the damage.
- Timely Repairs to Minimize Damage: If you delay repairs or don’t fix the issue properly, the insurance company might argue that additional damage was due to neglect—reducing or even voiding your claim.
It’s also essential to understand how filing a claim can affect your coverage. Read more about what happens to your policy when you file a claim to avoid unexpected surprises.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make When Handling Repairs Themselves
Even the most skilled DIYers can make costly mistakes when dealing with home insurance claims. Here are a few missteps that can lead to insurance headaches:
- No Paper Trail – If you fix the issue yourself without receipts, invoices, or professional documentation, your insurance company may dispute the validity of your claim.
- Inadequate Repairs – Insurance adjusters can tell when a repair wasn’t done professionally, and this can reduce your payout or lead to denial.
- Failure to Document the Cause of the Damage – Simply repairing the problem isn’t enough; you need to prove what caused the issue and when it occurred.
- Using Old or Spare Parts – If you replace a broken part with one from your garage or a neighbor’s house, you have no purchase receipt to prove what was used and when it was installed.
The Right Way to Handle a Home Repair Claim
If you’re dealing with water damage or another repair that might result in an insurance claim, follow these steps to protect yourself:
- Call a Professional First – Before making any repairs, bring in a licensed contractor to assess and document the damage.
- Photograph Everything – Take pictures of the damage before, during, and after repairs. This provides clear evidence for your claim.
- Keep All Receipts and Documentation – If you must do some emergency repairs yourself, ensure you buy all materials from a reputable store and keep the receipts.
- Consult a Public Adjuster – Insurance companies don’t always play fair. A public adjuster can help ensure your claim is properly valued and that you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Additionally, learn how a public adjuster turned a $40K claim into $400K—proof that expert advocacy makes a difference.
Don’t Risk Your Payout—Get Expert Help
A broken supply line might seem like a quick fix, but when insurance is involved, every step matters. Don’t let a simple mistake cost you thousands. At Panther Public Adjusting, we specialize in maximizing insurance claims for homeowners just like you. Our team of experienced public adjusters will ensure your claim is handled properly from start to finish.
✅ Call us now at 833-726-8437 for a free consultation!
✅ Submit your policy for a free review at Claims@PantherPA.com to ensure you’re fully covered.
✅ Visit our website to learn how we can help with your insurance claim.
Want to Learn More About Home Insurance Claims?
For expert insights and tips on handling home insurance claims, check out some of our most popular resources:
📌 Discover the impact of depreciation on your claim by reading What is Depreciation?
📌 Avoid costly roof damage mistakes with To Tarp or Not to Tarp: Critical Steps After Hurricane Damage
📌 Learn how insurance companies handle short-term rental coverage with Insurance for Short-Term Rentals
Stay Informed & Protect Your Home
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▶️ Watch expert videos on home insurance claims on our YouTube channel.
📢 Engage with other homeowners and get insider tips by joining our Facebook group, Anything About Property Insurance Claims 101.
Your home is your biggest investment—don’t let an insurance claim mistake cost you more than necessary. Call Panther Public Adjusting today for expert assistance!