How to make a water damage insurance claim, step by step
The evidence you gather in the first day is what secures a full payout. Here's how to claim, what to watch for, and how to avoid being underpaid.
1. Stop the water and make it safe
Turn off the stopcock and the electrics near the water, and stop any further damage. Insurers expect you to take reasonable steps to limit the loss.
2. Photograph and video everything — before you clean up
This is the single most important step. Capture the source of the leak, every affected room, and each damaged item, before you throw anything away or start drying out. Evidence gathered now is what proves the claim later.
3. List the damage and keep receipts
Write an inventory of everything damaged with a description and rough value, and keep receipts for emergency repairs, drying equipment and any alternative accommodation.
4. Notify your insurer — and remember whose side the adjuster is on
Report the claim promptly. Your insurer may send a loss adjuster to assess the damage — but the adjuster works for the insurer and protects their money, not yours.
Careful what you say
Don't speculate about the cause or admit you ignored a known issue — it can hand the insurer a "wear and tear" reason to cut the claim. Stick to facts you can evidence.
5. Check the offer before you accept it
Get your own repair and restoration quotes and compare them to the insurer's offer. Make sure it includes trace and access, contents and alternative accommodation — not just the obvious repairs. First offers are frequently low.
Larger or disputed claim?
On claims over roughly £10,000, or any claim that's been refused or lowballed, a loss assessor working for you can secure a materially bigger settlement. Get a free review first.