After water, fire, smoke, or vandalism damage to your home, your prompt action can minimize long-term damage.  The safe and simple steps listed in this brochure can assist you in restoring your home to its pre-loss condition.  Incorrect actions can be costly mistakes.  These "Do's" and "Don'ts" are listed for your information and protection.

Under the terms of your insurance policy, it is the responsibility of each property owner to take the necessary steps to prevent additional damage as well as secure the property from being a hazard to the public.  People are often drawn to a damaged home through curiosity, and led to believe that its contents have no value when this may not be the case.

Temporary Repairs to Prevent Further Damage:

1. Properly close and lock (if possible) windows, doors, and any other openings that would allow people free access.

2. Cover any opening in the roof to protect your property against the elements.

3. In cold weather, if heat cannot be restored to the structure immediately, drain all supply lines and water heaters, blow out both hot and cold supply lines with air, put anti-freeze in all sinks, toilet bowls, and tub raps to minimize the possibility of additional water damage.

4. If moisture exists, every effort should be made to remove it as quickly as possible.

5. The electricity should be restored to the structure as quickly as possible by a qualified electrician.

6. Completely seal the structure to avoid additional loss of heat during cold weather.

7. Make sure water heaters are drained and turned off.

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