1. Act Fast and Prioritize Safety

The first step in handling water damage is ensuring safety.

Turn off electrical systems if water is near outlets or wiring.
Avoid standing water, especially in basements where electrical hazards may exist.
If necessary, evacuate the premises until it’s safe to return.

Time is critical—mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure. Delaying action increases damage and can complicate insurance claims.

2. Stop the Source of the Water

Before anything else, identify and stop the source of the water if possible.

Shut off the main water valve if a pipe has burst.
If the issue is due to a roof leak or exterior flooding, try to seal off the affected area temporarily using tarps or sandbags.
For appliance leaks, unplug and stop the unit from functioning further.

Once the source is contained, you can better assess the scope of the damage.

3. Document the Damage Thoroughly

Before you start cleaning or repairs, document everything:

Take clear photos and videos of the affected areas.
Include close-ups of damaged items, walls, flooring, ceilings, and personal property.
Note the time and date you discovered the damage.

This documentation is crucial when filing an insurance claim. Incomplete records can lead to underpaid settlements or denied claims.

4. Contact a Public Adjuster Before the Insurance Company

Most people instinctively call their insurance company first—but this can be a mistake.

Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company. Public adjusters, like those at Atlantic Adjusting Co. Inc., work for you. We:

Evaluate the full scope of your damages
Prepare detailed claims with evidence
Negotiate directly with your insurance provider on your behalf

By contacting a public adjuster first, you’re getting an expert on your side to ensure you aren’t settling for less than you deserve.

Call us at (888) 516-ADJUST before speaking to your insurer.

5. Mitigate Further Damage

Insurance policies typically require you to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage after an incident. That doesn’t mean doing full repairs, but taking actions such as:

Removing wet rugs or furniture
Using fans or dehumidifiers to dry affected areas
Covering broken windows or roof openings with plastic or tarps

Keep receipts for any materials or temporary services you use—these may be reimbursable under your policy.

6. Don’t Rush Repairs Before the Inspection

You might be eager to start repairs, but it’s best to wait until your claim is properly assessed.

At Atlantic Adjusting Co. Inc., we coordinate professional inspections and work with restoration companies to ensure every inch of damage is properly documented and covered. Rushing repairs before your claim is settled can lead to out-of-pocket costs or uncovered work.

7. Understand Your Insurance Policy

Homeowners and commercial property policies vary widely, and coverage for water damage depends on the cause:

Sudden pipe bursts are often covered.
Gradual leaks or neglected maintenance may not be.
Flooding from external sources usually requires separate flood insurance.

We’ll help you decode the fine print of your policy and determine what is and isn’t covered.

8. Why Choose Atlantic Adjusting Co. Inc.?

Based in New Jersey, Atlantic Adjusting Co. Inc. has a proven track record of representing property owners in complex water damage claims. We handle everything from start to finish, reducing stress and maximizing your settlement.

✅ Local expertise in New Jersey claims
✅ Licensed, bonded, and experienced public adjusters
✅ Personalized support throughout the claims process
✅ Transparent, no-recovery-no-fee policy

Whether your damage is residential, commercial, or part of a larger catastrophe loss, our team is ready to fight for what you’re owed.

Final Thoughts

Water damage can disrupt your life and drain your finances—but with the right response and representation, you can recover quickly and confidently. Don’t leave your claim to chance.

If you’ve experienced water damage in New Jersey, call Atlantic Adjusting Co. Inc. today at (888) 516-ADJUST for a free consultation.

📍 Visit us online: https://atlanticadjustingcompany.com