Minimize Your Loss

In many cases, you can help control the extent that your home and possessions are damaged and help protect your property from further damage.

Tips To Minimize Damage Or Loss To Your Home Or Property

Do not attempt any of the following actions unless they can be done safely.

For light to moderate fire damage:

  • Turn off the circuit breakers which control the damaged area.
  • Pick up debris and set aside for the claims adjuster to inspect.
  • Do not try to clean smoke or soot from your furniture, as professional cleaning is recommended.
  • After a major fire, the home should be boarded up as securely as possible.

If your roof is seriously damaged or leaking badly, call a roofer or handyman to install a plastic tarp to cover the damaged area.

  • Turn off the main water supply.
  • Remove wet carpeting, if possible.
  • Notify police or the proper authority and obtain a case number.
  • Collect receipts, warranty booklets or other documentation for the stolen items.

If a vehicle has made an entry through a wall of your home, or if any part of the dwelling appears prone to collapse, you should not occupy the house.

For light to moderate fire damage:

  • Turn off the circuit breakers which control the damaged area.
  • Pick up debris and set aside for the claims adjuster to inspect.
  • Do not try to clean smoke or soot from your furniture, as professional cleaning is recommended.
  • After a major fire, the home should be boarded up as securely as possible.

If your roof is seriously damaged or leaking badly, call a roofer or handyman to install a plastic tarp to cover the damaged area.

  • Turn off the main water supply.
  • Remove wet carpeting, if possible.
  • Notify police or the proper authority and obtain a case number.
  • Collect receipts, warranty booklets or other documentation for the stolen items.

If a vehicle has made an entry through a wall of your home, or if any part of the dwelling appears prone to collapse, you should not occupy the house.

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