Once a winter storm passes, many homeowners are left wondering what to check and what to do next. Even if everything looks fine at first glance, storm related damage is not always obvious right away. This is the time to slow down, look carefully, and address small issues before they turn into bigger ones.

Start with a quick safety check

Before walking through your home, make sure it is safe. Watch for standing water, sagging ceilings, fallen branches, or damaged areas. If the storm caused a power outage, be cautious around outlets and appliances once power is restored. If anything feels unsafe, trust that instinct and avoid the area.

Check for water where it should not be

After a winter storm, water damage often shows up as melting ice and frozen pipes begin to thaw. Look for water around baseboards, ceilings, walls, and under sinks. Pay attention to damp smells, stains, bubbling paint, or warped flooring. These can be early signs of water intrusion.

Inspect pipes and plumbing

Even if pipes did not burst during the storm, cracks can form while they are frozen. Once temperatures rise, leaks may begin slowly. Run water carefully and listen for unusual sounds. Low water pressure or dripping where there was none before can indicate a problem.

Look outside for winter storm damage

Ice and wind can cause tree limbs to break and impact roofs, siding, or windows. Even small openings can allow water to enter your home.

If you see missing shingles, dents, or damaged areas, protecting the opening quickly can help prevent additional damage.

When to call for help

If you notice water damage, leaks, or storm related impacts, it is best to act sooner rather than later. Winter storm water spreads fast and can become more severe the longer it sits.

First In Restoration responds to post storm water damage, frozen and burst pipes, and storm related impacts. We also provide emergency tarping and branch removal to help protect your home if damage is found.

If you are unsure what to do after a winter storm or you notice water where it should not be, call First In Restoration at 470.748.0225. We are available 24/7 and here to help.

It’s already frustrating to experience water damage in your home or business. Having a water damage insurance claim denied is your worst nightmare. While water damage restoration is necessary, it can be costly, especially the longer the water has been left to sit.

If you have to come out of pocket for water damage restoration, you may be left wondering how much everything will cost and how you’ll pay the bill? With First In Restoration you still have options, even if your water damage claim was denied.

Why Was Your Water Damage Insurance Claim Denied?

Insurance companies have strict guidelines on what they cover. It’s important to review your policy closely every year when it is up for renewal. Common reasons for insurance claim denial may include:

• Gradual Damage – If you had a leak for a long time (even if you didn’t realize it) or if you didn’t properly maintain your home and it caused a long-term leak, then this is considered homeowner negligence and will not be covered.
• Flood vs. Water Damage Confusion – If your home floods from heavy rains, storms or overflowing rivers and creeks you will need separate flood insurance for that. Typically standard insurance will not cover it.
• Late Reporting – Failing to report damage immediately to your insurance company make get your claim denied. Your insurance company may take the stance that the delay in calling to make the claim worsened the damage of your home (which will cost them more money).
• Incorrect or Insufficient Coverage – There is more than one type of water damage and your insurance policy may have exclusions you weren’t aware of. It’s best to talk to local insurance agent to make sure you’re covered.

What to Do If Your Water Damage Claim Is Denied

1. Review Your Policy 

Read every detail in your insurance policy regarding water damage coverage and the reasons for denial. 

2. Request a Written Explanation

If your claim was denied over the phone by the adjuster, consider requesting a formal written explanation by the insurance company. This will show you the exact reason for claim denial and you can determine whether you should challenge the decision.

3. Gather Evidence & Documentation

Your insurance company may have denied the claim due to lack of sufficient proof. You can help strengthen your case with:

• Photos and videos of the damage
• Repair invoices and written professional assessments and estimates
• Reports by plumbers or contractors outlining the issue

4. File an Appeal

Most insurance companies allow you to appeal a denied claim. Submit a written request with the following:

• Give an explanation (in detail) of why you believe the damage should be covered
• Add any additional documents or expert opinions (ie: from your plumber) supporting the claim
• Reference line items of your policy if coverage should apply

5. Consult a Public Adjuster 

A public adjuster has the authority to review your insurance policy as well as your case. They can represent you and negotiate with your insurer on your behalf. 

6. Consider Legal Action

If everything else fails you may have to take matters into your own hands and consider:

• Filing a complaint with the Georgia’s insurance commissioner.
• Hire an attorney that specializes in disputes with insurance claims.

How First In Restoration Can Help

Dealing with water damage AND a denied insurance claim is overwhelming. At First In Restoration, the best water damage restoration company in Georgia, we work directly with homeowners and businesses to assess and restore water damage. Call First In Restoration today at 470-748-0225 or visit www.firstinrestoration.com.

Leaking appliances are a homeowner’s nightmare. Who would think that something so simple as a washing machine, dishwasher or refrigerator could cause such significant water damage to your home? 

I Have An Appliance Leak That Flooded My Home. What Do I Do Now?

Let’s walk through the steps so you know what to do if you experience an appliance leak.

1. Turn Off the Water Supply and Electricity

Always turn off the water supply first thing when you discover water flooding from an appliance. If the appliance is connected to a water line (even a fridge that has an ice machine) you have to shut off the water supply valve. Also turn off the power supply to avoid any potential hazards, such as electrical shock or short circuits. 

2. Assess the Damage

Once the water source and electricity have been shut off it’s time to assess the damage. Make sure you take photos of the flooding, any damaged items as well as the appliance itself. Try to take some close up photos (and video on your phone if possible) as well as some with context that include the appliance. Document everything for your insurance claim. Water can quickly leak into walls, flooring and furniture which causes serious, long-term damage if it is not addressed right away.

3. Call First In Restoration 

Even if you’re able to stop the flooding, water damage should not be handled on your own (unless you like long term damage and mold). It should be a priority to call a professional water restoration company to assess the situation and begin water mitigation on your home. We will extract standing water and dry out your home, but also inspect for mold growth, which can start within 24-48 hours. First In Restoration is the number one water damage restoration company in Georgia. With years of experience, we are experts in handling all types of water damage: from appliance leaks to flooding caused by storms or plumbing issues. We are available 24/7 to respond to emergencies and will provide you with fast, efficient and the most reliable service you need.

4. Contact Your Local Insurance Agent

Once the immediate crisis is under control you will need to contact your local insurance agent. However, some appliance leaks are covered by insurance and some are not. It truly depends on the cause as well as your policy. Some examples:

• Is the Leak Covered? Sudden and accidental water damage caused by appliances like dishwashers, washing machines or refrigerators are covered, as long as the leak was unexpected and not due to neglect. If the appliance suddenly broke down or malfunctioned unexpectedly, it could be covered. But we can’t say for sure — ALWAYS CHECK YOUR POLICY. 
• What’s Not Covered? Lack of maintenance to your appliance will not be covered if it floods your home. If your water damage is caused by a clogged drain or old appliance hose, your insurance will not cover the cost of repairs. Wear and tear is on the homeowner and general upkeep. The insurance will not cover this.

Make sure to review your policy and don’t hesitate to ask your insurance company about specific exclusions or coverage limits related to appliance water damage.

5. File a Claim and Keep Your Documentation

To file an insurance claim you must provide your insurance company with the documentation you’ve gathered. Always include photos of the damage as well as a written description of what happened. First In Restoration keeps detailed notes, photos and videos and can provide a report detailing the extent of the damage, which can help support your insurance claim.

6. Repair or Replace the Appliance

Once the water damage has been extracted and mitigated you’ll need to figure out what to do with the appliance. If the appliance is repairable, a repair technician can fix it. However, if it’s ruined beyond repair, you’ll need to replace it. Check with your insurance provider to see if appliance replacement or repair costs are covered under your claim.

Prevent Future Leaks To avoid future appliance issues you need to regularly inspect and maintain your appliances. Hoses and filters have a shelf life. Keep them changed out and check for leaks and corrosion regularly to keep your appliances in working order.

If you had an appliance leak that flooded your home we know you are frustrated. At First In Restoration, we understand how overwhelming water damage from appliances can be. As Georgia’s top water damage restoration company, we offer fast and thorough water damage mitigation services. Whether you’re dealing with a leaking appliance or any other water damage emergency, you can count on us to provide the highest quality service. Call us 24/7 to ensure your home is restored safely and effectively! 470-748-0225, www.firstinrestoration.com

So, your property took a hit. It’s the worst feeling, we’ve been there. Maybe it was a busted pipe, a darned old sneaky roof leak, or a full-on indoor water park situation (fun on a trip but not in your house or office). Either way, the damage is done. You’ve gone through everything… the professionals have completed water extraction, the drying, the cleanup—but now what? You don’t just want a space that’s dry, you want a space that actually looks normal again. That’s where the fun part comes in! Time for reconstruction for your home or commercial space!

What is Reconstruction, and Why Do You Need It?

Reconstruction is the final step in making your home or commercial space whole again. After water damage, mold remediation, or fire damage cleanup, parts of your property might need some serious TLC—think drywall repair, flooring replacement, cabinet restoration, painting and more. It’s like hitting the “undo” button on disaster, but with the best materials and craftsmanship.

Let’s be real for a minute: You don’t want to run a business with missing ceiling tiles, warped floors or walls that look like an abstract art experiment gone wrong. Our reconstruction services ensures your home or office doesn’t just survive a disaster—it comes back better than it was before.

Why You Shouldn’t DIY Reconstruction on Your Home or Commercial Space

We get it—YouTube makes everything look easy. We love the Perkins Builders Brothers too! But unless you love uneven flooring, mismatched paint and possibly installing a door backward (yes, we have seen this from homeowner’s mistake), it’s best to call in the professionals. Reconstruction isn’t just about fixing what’s broken—it’s about making sure it’s done right, so you don’t have any problems down the road.

Our team at First In Restoration doesn’t just slap some paint on and call it a day. We rebuild, restore, and upgrade as necessary to make sure your home or business is safe, sturdy and looking more beautiful than ever.

First In Restoration: Georgia’s #1 Restoration & Reconstruction Experts

When disaster strikes, we handle everything—from water mitigation to mold removal to full reconstruction for both residential and commercial properties. We are insurance specialists, which means we deal with the headache of paperwork so you don’t have to. Plus, we offer FREE inspections because knowing what needs to be done shouldn’t cost you a dime.

📞 Call us now at 470-748-0225 or visit www.firstinrestoration.com to get your home or business back to pre-disaster perfection. First In Restoration serves all of Georgia but we focus on Loganville, and surrounding areas like Johns Creek as well as counties like Gwinnett, Walton, Barrow, Hall, Clarke, Oconee and Jackson.

When dealing with water damage, insurance companies prioritize working with IICRC-certified water restoration experts. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets the industry standard for water damage restoration. This ensures that water damage professionals follow best practices for water extraction and mitigation, cleanup and repair. At First In Restoration, we are proud to be IICRC-certified, providing high-quality service and making the insurance claims process easier for homeowners.

Why Do Insurance Companies Prefer IICRC-Certified Water Restoration Experts?

1. Proper Documentation for Claims

One of the biggest challenges homeowners face when filing an insurance claim for water damage is proper documentation. Insurance adjusters need clear evidence of the damage, the restoration process and compliance with industry standards. We are also trained to use the insurance company’s preferred software, Xactimate.

As an IICRC-Certified Water Restoration company, First In Restoration follows a structured process that includes:

• Extremely thorough photographic documentation before, during and after restoration.
• Detailed professional moisture readings and reports to track water damage and drying progress.
• Comprehensive notes and reports on the job that align with standard insurance requirements. Often our reports go above and beyond the insurance’s requests.

This level of documentation ensures a smoother claims process, reducing delays and disputes with insurance providers.

2. Industry-Standard Techniques for Effective Restoration

IICRC-Certified Water Restoration Experts are trained in the latest techniques for water damage mitigation and restoration. This means:

• Faster response times to prevent additional damage like mold growth.
• The use of advanced commercial drying equipment such as industrial dehumidifiers and air scrubbers and movers.
• Proper sanitization using hydrogen peroxide to prevent mold and ensure a safe living environment for your family.

By adhering to the standards in the S500 (IICRC’s handbook for standards), First In Restoration ensures that your home is restored correctly the first time, minimizing additional damage and costs.

3. Increased Trust and Credibility

Insurance companies want to work with reputable, trained professionals who understand how to navigate the claims process. IICRC certification demonstrates:

• A commitment to excellence in water damage mitigation and restoration.
• Extensive training in water extraction, drying as well as structural restoration.
• Knowledge of insurance policies and claim requirements to best assist homeowners effectively.

By choosing First In Restoration, you’re not only getting the best service in restoration and mitigation, but also a trusted partner in your insurance claim process.

First In Restoration: The Best Water Restoration Company in Georgia

When disaster strikes, you need a company that is certified, experienced, and trusted by insurance providers. First In Restoration is the best water restoration company in Georgia, providing expert water damage mitigation, cleanup, and reconstruction with a commitment to excellence.

IICRC-Certified Team – Industry-leading expertise in water damage restoration. Fast Response Times – Available 24/7 to minimize damage. Insurance Assistance – We handle documentation to make claims easier. Complete Restoration – From water extraction to full reconstruction.

If your home has suffered water damage, don’t wait! Call First In Restoration today for trusted, IICRC-certified water damage restoration services serving Georgia with a focus in Gwinnett County water damage, Hall County water mitigation, Walton County water removal, Barrow County water cleanup, Loganville water damage and repair.

📞 Call Us 24/7 at: 470-748-0225

🌐 Learn More at: www.firstinrestoration.com

First In Restoration – First in The Fight for Your Home.