Dealing with water damage is stressful enough. The last thing you want is to navigate a confusing insurance process on top of it.
The good news? If you know what to expect, filing a water damage claim in Colorado doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This guide walks you through every step — from the initial call to getting your home restored.
What’s Typically Covered (And What’s Not)
Before we get into the process, let’s clear up the most common question: “Will my insurance cover this?”
Usually covered:
- Burst or frozen pipes
- Appliance malfunctions (washing machine, dishwasher, water heater)
- Accidental overflow (bathtub, toilet, sink)
- Roof leaks from storm damage
- Water damage from firefighting efforts
Usually NOT covered:
- Gradual leaks you neglected over time (a dripping pipe you ignored for months)
- Flood damage from rising water or natural disasters (this requires separate flood insurance)
- Sewer backup (unless you have a specific sewer backup rider on your policy)
- Mold that resulted from a maintenance issue
The key distinction insurers make: sudden and accidental vs. gradual and preventable. If the damage happened unexpectedly and wasn’t due to neglect, you’re likely covered.
Step 1: Call a Professional Restoration Team First
Before you call your insurance company, call a restoration professional. Here’s why this order matters:
Your insurance policy requires you to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage — and having a professional team on-site is the strongest proof that you acted immediately. But more importantly, an experienced restoration company knows exactly what your insurer needs to see: proper documentation, accurate scope of damage, and professional mitigation already underway.
When your restoration team is already working when the adjuster gets involved, the entire claims process runs smoother. Your restoration company can communicate directly with the adjuster, provide the documentation they need, and make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Call Revive Restoration at (970) 808-2056 — 24/7. We’ll get to your property fast, begin mitigation, and guide you through the insurance process from start to finish.
Step 2: Document the Damage Thoroughly
Your claim depends on documentation. The more detailed, the better — and your restoration team can help with this.
- Take photos and videos of every affected area before any cleanup begins.
- Photograph the source of the water damage if it’s visible.
- Make a list of damaged items — include descriptions, approximate age, and estimated value.
- Keep damaged items until the adjuster has inspected them (don’t throw anything away yet).
- Save all receipts for emergency purchases (fans, tarps, hotel stays if you had to leave).
Step 3: Call Your Insurance Company
With your restoration team on the way (or already on-site), now call your insurance company to report the claim.
Have this information ready:
- Your policy number
- Date and time the damage occurred (or was discovered)
- A brief description of what happened
- The extent of the damage (which rooms, what’s affected)
The insurance company will assign you a claim number and schedule an adjuster visit. Write down your claim number and the name of everyone you speak with.
Step 4: Schedule the Adjuster Visit
The insurance adjuster will inspect your property to assess the damage and estimate repair costs. Here’s how to prepare:
- Don’t complete major repairs before the adjuster visits (emergency mitigation is fine and expected).
- Have your documentation ready — photos, videos, inventory lists.
- Walk through the damage with the adjuster and point out everything, including areas you think might have hidden moisture.
- Ask questions. You have every right to understand what’s covered and what the next steps are.
Step 5: Get a Professional Restoration Estimate
Your insurance company will provide an estimate, but you’re not required to use their preferred vendor. You have the right to choose your own restoration company.
At Revive Restoration, we provide detailed estimates and work directly with your insurance adjuster to ensure nothing gets missed. We’ve worked with all the major carriers in Colorado and know exactly what documentation they need.
Step 6: Understand Your Payout
Insurance payouts for water damage typically work in two phases:
- Actual Cash Value (ACV): The initial payment, which accounts for depreciation on damaged items.
- Replacement Cost Value (RCV): The remaining amount paid after repairs are completed and receipts are submitted, bringing you to full replacement value.
Some policies pay replacement cost upfront. Check your policy or ask your agent which type you have.
Step 7: Complete the Restoration
Once your claim is approved:
- Your restoration team handles the water extraction, drying, demolition (if needed), and rebuild.
- Keep all invoices and receipts for the insurance company.
- Take photos of the completed repairs for your records.
Tips to Make the Process Smoother
- Act fast. The sooner you report and begin mitigation, the stronger your claim.
- Don’t sign anything you don’t understand. Ask for clarification on any documents.
- Keep a log of every phone call, email, and visit related to your claim.
- Work with a restoration company that handles insurance directly. It takes enormous stress off your plate.
How Revive Restoration Makes Insurance Easy
We know the insurance process can feel like a second disaster. That’s why we handle as much of it as possible for you:
- We work directly with all insurance carriers
- We provide the documentation and estimates adjusters need
- We communicate with your adjuster so you don’t have to play phone tag
- We keep you updated every step of the way
Our goal is simple: make this frustrating part of your life go as easily and smoothly as possible. That’s not just something we say — it’s how Levi built this company, and it’s how we treat every family we work with.
Water damage? Call Revive Restoration at (970) 808-2056. We’re available 24/7 and we’ll handle the insurance so you can focus on what matters.