Water damage

Water damage cleanup and repair

Most people don't have to deal with water damage regularly, that's why we're here to help. Check out some general steps to help you get your water damage fixed.

Should I file a claim for water damage?

Most insurance companies require you notify them when damage occurs. Now, whether you've filed a claim or not, it's important to use a reputable company when dealing with water damage. With preferred contractors¹, you can find local professionals who are certified and have specialized training.

Why it's important to address water damage early

The main reasons to address water damage early are drying services can significantly

• Reduce damage
• Prevent the growth of mold and mildew
• Prevent further and/or hidden damage

Please note, most homeowners policies require people to do their best to stop damage from getting worse. Not doing this could violate some of your policy terms and result in a denial from your insurance company.

Where to begin, and what to do

1. Safety first

• Do not use electrical equipment or appliances while standing on wet carpet or floors
• Never use water damaged electrical equipment, even if you're using it in a dry area

2. Stop the leak or drip to prevent further damage

• Water from a burst or leaking pipe. Find the closest shut-off valve and turn it off
• Water from the roof or broken windows. We could help you find a company to help protect your property from more damage

3. Get it fixed

After reporting your claim, you can use a water cleanup company of your choice to fix the damage, but we recommend using one of our preferred contractors¹. Talk to your claims representative about which option is best for you and how to proceed.

If you need help finding a company to help, you can search our preferred contractors¹.

Why use preferred contractor¹?

Who does your repairs is up to you, but here are a few reasons we recommend using a preferred contractor¹ for your claim.

• Quality: Our program includes only professionally licensed, certified vendors who've undergone a background check and use techniques meeting industry standards.
• Fast service: Typically, our vendors contact the customer within one hour after the claim is filed and arrive at the home within four hours.
• Efficiency: Liberty Mutual's claims team works closely with vendors to coordinate and monitor the drying process.
• Value: Program vendors have agreed to complete the work at pre-negotiated rates, and bills go directly to Liberty Mutual for payment.

Not ready to start a claim? That's OK. You can still search our preferred contractors¹ to help you find a contractor in your area.

4. Document the damage

• Take photos and videos
• Save all damaged items (so your claims rep can inspect if needed)
• Keep a list of temporary repairs you make
• Save all claim-related bills and receipts

5. Protect your belongings and clean up

• Move wet items to drier areas
• Place aluminum foil between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Remove area rugs from the floor (helps prevent straining of flooring from dyes)
• Clean up as much water as possible by mopping or with towels

Helpful water damage resources

• Have water damage? Benefits of our vendor program
• The home drying process
• Understanding wood floor repair