Water losses are among the most common homeowner claims, and among the easiest to get wrong. A burst supply line, a slow leak, a sewer backup and surface water can look the same on the floor, but the policy treats each one differently.

This 21-page guide shows residential adjusters how to answer the two questions that decide every water claim: where the water came from, and how long it was coming.

Inside:

• How the policy treats water: supply lines, appliances, toilet overflow vs. sewer backup, sump pumps, flood, freezing and long-term leaks

• What’s usually covered: tearing out to reach the leak, and why the failed part itself isn’t

• The first call: 9 steps that keep the loss smaller, including saving the failed part

• Sudden or long-term? A clue table for staining, rot, corrosion, mold and flooring

• Water categories and classes: explained in plain language (IICRC S500)

• Reviewing mitigation fairly: drying logs, moisture maps, equipment and invoices

• Scoping the repairs: drywall, flooring, cabinets and access, without paying anything twice

• Contents, loss of use, mold and subrogation

• Three example claims, start to finish, plus a water claim checklist and glossary

Real field photos throughout.

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