Start here
Make it safe first
Water off, power off in wet areas, people away from sewage. Then document.
Photograph before cleaning
Wide shots of each room, then close-ups of damage, water lines on walls and the failed part.
Call your insurer
Ask how they want the claim reported and whether an adjuster needs to see it before cleanup.
Keep everything
Receipts, invoices, the failed hose or fitting, and any camera recordings.
Incident record
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Date and time noticed | |
| Where the water came from | |
| Clean water, gray water or sewage | |
| Time water was shut off | |
| Rooms affected | |
| Plumber's business name and CSLB number | |
| Cause stated on invoice | |
| Claim number | |
| Adjuster name and contact |
Damaged items
| Item | Room | Approximate age | Photo taken? | Kept or discarded? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yes / No | ||||
| Yes / No | ||||
| Yes / No | ||||
| Yes / No | ||||
| Yes / No |
Drying record
| Date | Area | Equipment running | Moisture reading or notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Expenses to keep receipts for
- Emergency plumbing visit and repair.
- Water extraction and drying.
- Sewage cleanup and disinfection.
- Fans, dehumidifiers and cleaning supplies you bought.
- Temporary housing or meals if the home was unusable.
- Storage for belongings during repairs.
Questions for your insurer
- Is the repair of the failed pipe covered, or only the damage it caused?
- Do I need an endorsement for sewer backup?
- Can I start drying before the adjuster visits?
- What documentation do you need from the plumber?
Common questions
Should I throw away soaked carpet before the adjuster comes?
Photograph it first and ask your insurer. Sewage-soaked materials are a health concern, so ask how they want it handled.
How long should I keep these records?
Until the claim is fully closed, and longer if repairs are ongoing.
Do I need the plumber's license number?
It is useful to have, and it shows the work was done by a licensed contractor.
General information for Anaheim, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.