Claim checklist.
Use the checklist to organize available records and questions about the loss. Confirm the actual documentation requirements with your adjuster.
Try the tool
What do I need before I
call my insurance adjuster?
Use this checklist to organize photos, dates, mitigation records and questions for your adjuster. Documentation requirements and coverage depend on your policy and the circumstances of the loss; confirm them with your carrier.
Water damage and mold claim documentation checklist
Use this checklist to organize your conversation with the adjuster. Coverage depends on your specific policy, endorsements and loss circumstances; confirm requirements with your carrier.
- Find your policy number, declarations page and relevant endorsements. Record the carrier contact and claim number once assigned.
- Record when you discovered the damage, the suspected source and the affected rooms. Keep a dated timeline of events and conversations.
- When safe, photograph the damage and affected belongings before cleanup. Keep original files and avoid entering unsafe areas for pictures.
- Keep receipts and records for emergency mitigation, drying equipment, temporary repairs and other related expenses.
- Request the inspection findings, moisture readings, drying logs, itemized scope and invoices from the restoration team.
- Ask the adjuster what additional documentation is required and what decisions need approval. Keep their written responses with your claim records.
Documentation supports review; it does not guarantee coverage or a payment timeline. Gateway can help organize your restoration records through insurance claims assistance. For emergency help, call (314) 947-3419, 24/7.
Why carrier-specific
How different carriers review
the same water damage claim
Home insurance policies differ in their coverage, exclusions, deductibles and limits. Review the actual policy and endorsements rather than assuming every US policy uses the same structure.
Carrier procedures and documentation requirements vary. Confirm the assigned contact, inspection process, payment arrangements and requested evidence directly with the insurer; no universal response deadline or expedited payout is guaranteed.
This checklist provides general claim-preparation prompts. It is not an insurer’s internal playbook and does not determine coverage or approval.
If you would rather have us handle it
Claim documentation Gateway can help organize
Gateway can help organize restoration estimates and available job documentation. Confirm the scope of that assistance, required authorization and any charges before work begins. Call (314) 947-3419 to discuss the loss.
Got the claim checklist? Get water damage help in St. Louis
Now call us. We help you work the claim from the first phone call.