PROPERTY DAMAGE CHECKLIST

9 Things to Do When You Experience Property Damage at Home

1. Ensure Everyone's Safety First

Before anything else, make sure everyone in your home is safe. If there's a fire, flooding, electrical hazard, or structural damage, evacuate the home and call emergency services if needed.

2. Stop the Damage from Getting Worse

(If Safe)

If it’s safe, take steps to prevent further damage. For example:

• Shut off the water if there’s a leak.

• Tarp the roof if shingles are missing.

• Cover broken windows. These quick actions can help minimize your losses — and your insurance company will appreciate it.

3. Document Everything Thoroughly

Take clear photos and videos of all the damage before cleaning anything up. Include wide shots and close-ups of affected areas, especially structural elements, roofing, siding, flooring, or personal items.

Make sure to take multiple photos, the more the better. This will be very helpful for your own sense of mind, and also for your adjuster as they put together your property claim.

4. Don’t Throw Anything Away Yet

Even if something looks destroyed, keep it until the insurance adjuster sees it. It can serve as proof of the damage and help validate your claim. If it must be thrown away immediately to prevent any further damage, make sure to take photos and document all information for your adjuster.

5. Make a List of Damaged Items

Create a written inventory of anything damaged — furniture, appliances, personal belongings, and structural elements like siding, roofing, drywall, or windows. Include approximate values and receipts if available.

Make sure to note make, style and manufacturer to ensure you receive proper coverage for all your damaged items. Including cabinets, countertops, personal items and appliances.

6. Call a Trusted Contractor — Like US!

We will help with the rest!

• We will make sure to assess the full extent of the damage,

• Document structural and hidden damage you or your adjuster might miss

• Provide a detailed estimate for the necessary repairs for you and your adjuster

• Make sure you are receiving proper coverage for what is necessary for your property

• Handle your insurance claim from start to finish, so you won’t have to be the ‘middle man’.

We like to handle all of our insurance claims with care, compassion and quickness! Dave Murphy Builders is trusted in the Alpena area for exactly this kind of situation. With decades of experience in storm, water, and fire damage repair, we’ll walk you through the process, meet with the adjuster if needed, and make sure your home is restored to perfection!

When disaster strikes, don’t go it alone. Call Dave Murphy Builders first — and get peace of mind knowing your home is in expert hands.