Filing a Water Damage Claim for Your Basement: What to Know

Basement flooded? Whether it came from a broken pipe, sump pump failure, or a heavy rainstorm, filing an insurance claim the right way can make or break your recovery.

Here’s what you need to know to protect your home, your wallet, and your peace of mind.

Step 1: Stop the Damage (And Document Everything)

Before you call the insurance company, stop the source of the water—if you can do so safely. Then start taking photos and videos. You’ll want:

• Wide shots of each affected area

• Close-ups of damaged items and surfaces

• Footage showing water levels or water flow

Don’t throw anything out yet. Your adjuster might need to see it.

Step 2: Call Your Insurance Company

Get a claim started right away. Be clear and factual when describing what happened. Make note of:

• The time and date the damage started

• What caused it (if known)

• Any steps you’ve taken to stop or limit damage

Ask if your policy covers water damage from this cause. Not all policies are the same.

Step 3: Understand What’s Covered

Here’s where things get tricky.

Most standard homeowners policies cover sudden and accidental water damage—like a burst pipe or water heater failure.

They usually do NOT cover:

• Water that seeps in through walls or foundations

• Groundwater flooding

• Sewer backups (unless you added a specific rider)

You may need a separate flood policy for storm-related water, especially in low-lying areas around Grove City or near Big Darby Creek.

Step 4: Get Professional Help—Fast

Water doesn’t wait. Mold can start growing within 24–48 hours. That’s why your insurer will expect you to begin cleanup and drying right away.

At Total Home Water Restoration, we’ll:

• Extract the water

• Set up drying and dehumidification equipment

• Document everything for your claim

• Work directly with your insurance adjuster

We’ve handled jobs all over Columbus—from basements in Hilliard to crawl spaces in Reynoldsburg—and we know how to talk the insurance language.

Step 5: Keep Good Records

Make a folder or digital file and include:

• All claim numbers and adjuster info

• Receipts for cleanup or temporary repairs

• Copies of any emails or messages with your insurer

If you hire a contractor (like us) for the full restoration, make sure you get a detailed scope of work in writing.

Common Insurance Claim Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting too long to report: Delays can be used as reasons to deny claims.

• Throwing things out too soon: You need proof for reimbursement.

• Doing too much demolition on your own: You might damage something important to the claim.

Questions You Might Be Asking

Can I clean up the water myself to save money?
You can start with towels or a wet vac, but for anything more than an inch of water or if you’re dealing with drywall, carpet, or insulation, call a professional. DIY jobs often lead to mold or insurance issues down the line.

How long does the insurance process take?
It varies, but with clear documentation and professional help, most claims are settled within a few weeks.

When in Doubt, Call Us

We’ve been in enough basements to know that every job is different. If your Grove City or Columbus home is dealing with water damage, call me—Tyler Zimmerman—and I’ll give you a straight answer on what to do next.

Total Home Water Restoration
📍 4141 Hoover Rd, Grove City, OH 43123
📞 380-246-1837

From disaster to done right. We fix it like it’s our own home.