Make the property safe
Address immediate hazards and stop additional damage when it is safe to do so.
Preparation Process
The preparation process ends when the claim is opened.
This guide intentionally stops once the loss has been reported and the initial claim information has been recorded.
Preserve the starting condition
Photograph, video, record discovery time, apparent source, affected areas, visible migration, and contents before conditions materially change when practical.
Build the mitigation record
Keep measurements, equipment logs, cleaning or demolition records, work authorizations, invoices, and final-condition documentation.
Open the claim if you choose
Provide accurate factual information requested by the carrier and retain the claim number, date reported, carrier name, and copies of what you submitted.
After the claim begins
SDM's role is to keep documenting the property and the mitigation work it performs. Coverage interpretation, coverage decisions, payment decisions, negotiation, and legal questions are not part of this guide or SDM's contractor role.