You have filed your insurance claim. The adjuster is scheduled to visit in a few days. What you do between now and that visit can make or break your claim.
The adjuster works for the insurance company. Their job is to assess damage and determine what the policy covers — and what it does not. Your job is to make sure they see everything, understand the full scope, and have no reason to undervalue or deny your claim.
Here is exactly what to do in the days before the adjuster shows up.
This is the single most important step. Before you move debris, before you clean up, before you make any temporary repairs — document the damage.
Your insurance policy includes a "duty to mitigate" clause. This means you are required to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. Do not let anyone tell you that you cannot touch anything until the adjuster comes. That is a myth that can cost you thousands.
Every dollar you spend on emergency mitigation is reimbursable under your policy. But only if you can prove it.
Store receipts digitally. Take a photo of each one immediately — paper receipts fade and get lost.
If personal property inside the home was damaged (furniture, electronics, clothing, appliances), create an inventory:
This inventory matters because your insurer will use it to calculate the personal property portion of your claim. The more detail you provide, the more accurate (and fair) the valuation.
Having a professional estimate in hand before the adjuster arrives gives you a major advantage. A licensed contractor knows what repairs actually cost in your local market. The adjuster is using software-generated pricing that may not reflect reality.
Get at least one detailed, itemized estimate. Two or three is better.
Do not sign a contract or authorize permanent repairs yet. You want the estimate on paper for the adjuster meeting — that is all.
For tips on choosing the right contractor, read our guide on how to hire a contractor after storm damage without getting scammed.
This is the mistake people make most often: they clean up the mess and throw everything away before the adjuster arrives. Do not do this.
If materials must be removed for safety or health reasons (for example, sewage-contaminated materials), document them thoroughly with photos and video before disposal.
Create a one-page summary that you can hand the adjuster when they arrive. Include:
This summary shows the adjuster you are organized and serious. It also makes their job easier, which works in your favor.
Schedule the adjuster visit for a time when you can be there. Walk the property with them. Point out every area of damage — do not assume they will find it all on their own.
Adjusters inspect dozens of properties after a major storm. They are working quickly. If you do not point something out, it may get missed. That missing line item could be worth hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Bring your damage summary, your photos, and your contractor's estimate. If the adjuster misses something, respectfully point it out and reference your documentation.
After the inspection, the adjuster will prepare an estimate and submit it to the insurance company. You will receive a written settlement offer. Compare it carefully to your contractor's estimate. If there are gaps, your contractor can submit a supplement — an itemized request for additional funds.
For a complete walkthrough of the claims process from start to finish, read our guide on when and how to file a homeowner's insurance claim after storm damage.
If you believe the adjuster undervalued your claim, you have options including requesting a re-inspection or hiring a public adjuster. In cases of bad faith, you can file a complaint with your state's Department of Insurance.
Before the adjuster arrives, make sure you have:
After every storm, walk your property using our storm damage checklist to catch problems early.
Published by SedaliRoofs.com Editorial
This article is for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute insurance, legal, or professional advice. Insurance policies vary significantly — always review your specific policy language and consult with your insurance agent or a licensed public adjuster for guidance on your claim.
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