A plain-English guide to what to document, what policies usually cover and how to work with your adjuster after a loss. We cannot tell you what your policy covers, but we can make sure your claim is well documented.
Every policy is different, but there are common patterns. Use this table as a guide for questions to ask, not as a promise of coverage.
| Type of loss | Often | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Burst pipe, appliance or water heater failure | Often covered when sudden and accidental | Long-term or hidden leaks, wear and tear, and lack of maintenance are commonly excluded |
| Storm damage through the roof | Often covered for the interior damage the storm caused | The roof repair itself may depend on age and condition |
| River or surface flooding | Usually not covered by homeowners insurance | Needs a separate flood policy (NFIP or private) |
| Sewer or drain backup | Often excluded unless you added an endorsement | Check for a water backup or sump overflow endorsement |
| Mold | Sometimes covered after a covered water loss, often with a limit | Mold from humidity or neglected leaks is commonly excluded |
| Fire and smoke | Generally covered, including smoke and firefighting water | Contents, structure and living expenses have separate limits |
Harrisburg sits on the Susquehanna River, and river flooding is a real risk for low-lying neighborhoods. Standard homeowners insurance usually does not cover flood, so check whether you have a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private carrier. You can look up your flood zone on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center. Our Shipoke and Steelton pages cover flood risk near the river.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Deductible | The amount you pay before coverage begins. |
| Actual cash value (ACV) | Replacement cost minus depreciation. |
| Replacement cost (RCV) | The cost to replace with similar new materials. |
| Mitigation | Emergency steps to stop further damage: extraction, drying, board-up. |
| Supplement | An additional request when hidden damage is found after the first estimate. |
| Additional living expenses (ALE) | Costs of living elsewhere while your home is unusable. |
| Proof of loss | A formal sworn statement of the loss, with deadlines set by your policy. |
We respond quickly, dry and clean the property, and record everything: photos, moisture readings, equipment logs and a written scope. With your permission we answer your adjuster's technical questions. We can also handle repairs after drying. See repair and reconstruction. You are free to choose your contractor, and we do not tell you whether to file a claim.
To understand costs before you file, try our cost calculator or the water damage estimate table. If you have already seen mold, read about mold remediation, and for fire loss see fire and smoke damage restoration.
You can do both at once. Emergency mitigation such as extracting water and drying is normally expected and does not need to wait for the adjuster. Report the loss promptly, keep photos and receipts, and call us so we can start protecting the property.
No. You have the right to choose your own contractor. Insurers may have preferred vendors, but the choice is yours.
That depends on your insurer and policy, and we cannot advise on it. Ask your agent before filing if you are unsure, and remember that filing questions differ from filing claims.
Ask for the denial in writing and the specific policy language behind it. You can request a review, provide more documentation, and contact the Pennsylvania Insurance Department for help with policyholder questions.
Yes. With your permission we answer technical questions from the adjuster and provide our photos, readings and scope. We do not negotiate coverage for you, and we will not promise what your insurer will pay.
Some homeowners hire a licensed public adjuster on larger or disputed claims. It is optional, usually costs a percentage of the settlement, and is your decision.
Your landlord's policy generally covers the building, and your renter's insurance covers your belongings and living expenses. Tell your landlord right away and document your damaged belongings.
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