Photos to take before cleanup
- A wide shot of each affected room from the doorway.
- The source: the broken pipe, failed hose, leaking heater or backed-up drain.
- Close-ups of water lines on walls, baseboards and cabinets.
- Ceilings, including stains, sagging or holes.
- Flooring: carpet, pad, wood and tile edges.
- Damaged belongings, with brand labels visible where possible.
- The water meter reading and the closed main valve.
Photos during and after the repair
- Any opened wall, floor or slab showing the damaged pipe.
- The removed part, if the plumber leaves it with you.
- Camera inspection screenshots or the recording, if one was made.
- The completed repair before drywall or flooring is closed up.
Damage record
| Room | What was damaged | Photo numbers | Thrown away? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Organizing the record
- Back up the photos.Copy them to a cloud folder or email them to yourself the same day.
- Name the folder by date.Include the date and a short description, such as the room and the problem.
- Add documents.Save the plumber's invoice, written quotes, receipts for supplies and any permit paperwork in the same folder.
- Call your insurer.Ask what they need and whether an adjuster wants to see the damage before repairs or disposal.
Why the plumber's invoice matters
Insurers ask what caused the damage as well as how much there is. A written invoice that describes the cause, such as a failed supply hose, a corroded pipe section or a root-blocked lateral, gives everyone the same starting point.
Ask the plumber to describe the cause in plain words on the invoice and to include their CSLB license number. Policies differ on what is covered, so the insurer, not the plumber, decides coverage.
Common questions
Can I throw away wet carpet before the adjuster comes?
Ask your insurer first. If it must go for health reasons, especially with sewage, photograph it thoroughly and keep a sample if they ask.
Do I need video as well as photos?
A slow walk-through video with narration is a helpful addition, especially for showing how far the water spread.
Will insurance cover the pipe repair itself?
It depends on the policy. Some cover resulting damage but not the failed pipe. Ask your insurer.
General information for La Habra, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.