Homeowners Guide: How Insurance Works During the Restoration Process

When disaster hits your home—whether it's a burst pipe, a kitchen fire, or a mold issue—it can feel overwhelming. You're dealing with damage, stress, and uncertainty all at once. The good news? If you're a homeowner with insurance, you don't have to navigate the restoration process alone. At Vintage Design Restoration, we help homeowners just like you restore their homes—and peace of mind—while guiding them through the insurance process from start to finish.

Step 1: Contact Your Insurance Company ASAP

The moment you discover damage in your home, the first step is to call your insurance provider. Most homeowners insurance policies require prompt reporting of the incident. The sooner you file a claim, the sooner your recovery can begin.

📌 Tip: Write down your claim number, the name of your adjuster, and the date/time of your call—you’ll need that info later.

Step 2: Call a Professional Restoration Company (Don’t Wait!)

Many homeowners think they need to wait for the insurance adjuster before beginning any cleanup. That’s a myth—and it can actually lead to more damage.

🏠 At Vintage Build Restoration, we respond 24/7 to emergencies. We’ll:

  • Remove standing water or debris

  • Dry and protect your home from further damage

  • Take photos and document everything for your insurance claim

  • Begin mold prevention steps (if needed)

Acting fast not only protects your home, but also shows your insurance company you’re being proactive.

Step 3: Insurance Adjuster Visit and Damage Assessment

Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to visit your home and evaluate the damage. Don’t worry—we’ll be there to help!

✅ We meet with your adjuster to walk them through our findings
✅ We provide professional moisture readings, estimates, and reports
✅ We make sure no damage is overlooked

Having us on-site helps ensure the adjuster understands the full scope of the damage and what’s required to fix it properly.

Step 4: Understanding Your Coverage

Not all policies are the same, but homeowners insurance typically covers sudden and accidental damage like:

  • Water from a burst pipe

  • Fire and smoke damage

  • Mold caused by a covered water loss

  • Storm-related roof leaks

However, it usually won’t cover:

  • Gradual damage (like a slow leak that wasn’t addressed)

  • Flooding from outside (unless you have flood insurance)

  • Mold not connected to a covered event

🧾 We’ll help you understand your policy and what your insurance will likely cover.

Step 5: Restoration Work Begins

Once your insurance provider approves the claim, we get to work rebuilding and restoring your home. From removing damaged materials to full repairs and remodeling, we’ll bring your home back to pre-loss condition—or better.

🔨 Services may include:

  • Water extraction and structural drying

  • Mold remediation

  • Smoke and soot cleanup

  • Drywall, flooring, and paint repairs

  • Full reconstruction if needed

Step 6: Insurance Coordination and Final Billing

Once the job is complete, we provide all final documentation, photos, and reports your insurance company needs to process payment. In most cases, insurance pays us directly, and you’re only responsible for your deductible.

📎 We handle the paperwork and communication with your insurer—so you don’t have to.

Why Homeowners Trust Vintage Build Restoration?

🏡 We’re not just contractors—we’re your advocate.
✔ Fully licensed and insured
✔ Certified restoration experts (IICRC-certified)
✔ Direct insurance billing
✔ Compassionate, family-friendly service
✔ We treat your home like it’s our own