The Complete Guide to Water Damage Insurance Claims in Illinois: What Adjusters Won’t Tell You

Why Illinois Homeowners Struggle With Water Damage Claims

When water damage strikes—whether from burst pipes, roof leaks, or flooded basements—your first instinct is to call your insurance company. But in Illinois, many homeowners quickly discover the hard truth: getting fully reimbursed is often harder than expected.

Insurance adjusters work for the carrier, not for you. Their job is to limit payouts—not maximize them. And unless you know how to document your loss, assert your rights, and navigate Illinois-specific insurance rules, you may end up underpaid or flat-out denied.

This comprehensive guide—crafted by the IICRC-certified experts at ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons—walks you through every step of the process.

Common Water Damage Claim Mistakes Illinois Homeowners Make

1. Not Documenting the Loss Immediately
   Photos, videos, written notes, and even water meter readings can make or break your claim.
2. Tossing Damaged Materials Too Early
   Don’t discard wet carpet, drywall, or furniture until the adjuster has seen them—or you’ve documented everything thoroughly.
3. Using an Unlicensed or Unfamiliar Contractor
   Insurers may reject claims if the remediation wasn’t done to IICRC standards. (Learn more about our residential water damage restoration services.)
4. Assuming Insurance Covers It All
   Most policies exclude:
   • Gradual leaks
   • Sewer backups (unless you have an endorsement)
   • Mold (if caused by neglect)
5. Accepting the First Payout Offer
   It’s often a lowball offer. You don’t have to accept it.

What Your Insurance Adjuster Won’t Tell You

• “You don’t have to accept our estimate.” You can—and should—negotiate.
• “You can hire your own mitigation experts.” You're not obligated to use preferred vendors. Work with experienced, IICRC-certified professionals like us.
• “You have the right to a fair and prompt settlement under Illinois law.” Don’t let delays go unchecked.
• “We may undervalue repairs unless you push back.” Especially for hidden damage that requires expertise to uncover.

How to Properly Document Water Damage in Illinois

• Take Photos & Video Immediately
  Capture wide shots, close-ups, and timestamps.
• Write a Loss Narrative
  Describe what happened, when, and what immediate actions you took.
• Keep Receipts & Communication Logs
  Include expenses like hotel stays, food, drying equipment, and contractor invoices.
• Request a Copy of Your Policy
  Know your exact coverage, exclusions, and endorsements.
• Get a Moisture Map
  ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons provides certified moisture mapping as part of our mitigation and claims documentation services.

What Illinois Law Says About Claim Timelines

Under the Illinois Insurance Code:

• Insurers must acknowledge your claim within 15 days
• They must complete the investigation within 30 days
• They must accept or deny your claim within 45 days of receiving your proof of loss

If they delay, you may be entitled to interest or legal relief. Learn more in our Resource Hub.

Denied or Underpaid? Know Your Rights in Illinois

• Request a Written Denial Explanation
• File a Complaint with the Illinois Department of Insurance
• Hire a Public Adjuster or Attorney if needed—but proceed cautiously.

When to Call a Public Adjuster (and When Not To)

Call a PA if:

• The claim exceeds $10,000
• You’ve already been denied
• You don’t trust the adjuster’s estimate

Avoid a PA if:

• The claim is small
• You’ve already documented thoroughly and are working with a certified restoration contractor (like us!)

How ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons Helps With Water Damage Insurance Claims

We don’t just dry your property—we help secure your reimbursement.

• IICRC-Certified Documentation
• Moisture Mapping & Photos
• Service Logs
• Direct Communication with Adjusters
• Assistance with Proof of Loss

Explore our residential water restoration services to see how we can assist.

Water Damage Claim Checklist for Illinois Homeowners

Immediately After Damage:

• Stop the water source (if safe)
• Call your insurer to report the claim
• Contact a certified restoration contractor

Documentation:

• Take clear photos/videos of all damage
• Write a detailed loss narrative
• Save all receipts (e.g., cleanup supplies, hotel stays)
• Get a copy of your policy
• Ask for a moisture map

Communication & Follow-up:

• Log every conversation with the insurance company
• Ask for the adjuster’s credentials in writing
• Don’t accept the first offer without review
• Contact IDOI for unresolved delays

Explore more in our 5 Hidden Signs of Water Damage Most Homeowners Miss blog.

FAQs

Q: Does homeowners insurance cover basement flooding in Illinois?
A: Not unless you have a special endorsement. Most base policies exclude sewer backups and groundwater seepage.

Q: How long do I have to file a water damage claim?
A: Policies vary, but you should report the incident immediately—within 14 days is recommended.

Q: What’s considered a “sudden and accidental” water loss?
A: Events like pipe bursts or appliance overflows—anything unplanned and fast—is typically covered.

Q: Can I choose my own restoration company?
A: Yes. You are legally allowed to choose your contractor. You're not required to use your insurer’s preferred vendor.

Q: What if my insurance only paid part of my damages?
A: You can appeal, provide new documentation, or work with a public adjuster for re-evaluation.

For more information on hidden risks, see our guide on How Hidden Water Can Damage Your Home.

About ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons

Based in the Chicagoland Metropolitan Area with offices in Skokie, Chicago, and Deerfield, ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons is a multi-award-winning disaster restoration firm with more than 30 years of experience. We serve residential and commercial properties across Cook, Lake, and DuPage counties.

We’re proudly MBE/WBE certified and IICRC certified with the industry’s highest credentials, including Master Water Restorer and Master Fire Restorer. We’re also RIA members and have participated in major national recovery efforts. Our team’s expertise is reflected in our guidebook, RESTORE: A Complete Guide To Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset, available on Amazon.

Let us help you restore more than property—we’ll help you restore peace of mind.