Case study: effective water damage mitigation after a wildfire in Southern California

Overview

In the wildfire-prone hills of Southern California, damage often goes beyond fire alone. For one homeowner, firefighting efforts that saved the property led to significant water damage, compromising the home’s structural integrity and air quality. This case study demonstrates the impact of an experienced independent adjuster and a skilled water mitigation team in fully restoring the property and securing comprehensive insurance coverage.

Challenges

Following the wildfire, the homeowner discovered that thousands of gallons of water used by firefighting teams had soaked into walls, floors, and structural components. This moisture created ideal conditions for mold growth, putting both the property’s integrity and the occupants’ health at risk. Initially, the insurance company offered a limited payout, covering only visible fire damage and overlooking hidden water damage and mold risks. Without proper mitigation, the homeowner faced future repair costs potentially totaling $30,000 to $50,000 due to structural deterioration and mold.

Solution

An independent adjuster was brought in to advocate for a comprehensive evaluation of both fire and water-related damages. Collaborating closely with the water mitigation team, the adjuster led a systematic and thorough assessment:

• Comprehensive Documentation: Every water-damaged area, including hidden moisture pockets, was carefully documented. The independent adjuster prepared a detailed report with photographic evidence, illustrating the full scope of the damage to justify an expanded insurance claim.

• High-Powered Drying Equipment: Industrial dehumidifiers and air movers capable of extracting over 1,000 gallons of moisture were deployed, expediting the drying process and preventing further structural weakening.

• Moisture Detection and Monitoring: Infrared cameras and moisture meters detected hidden water in walls, ceilings, and subfloors. Monitoring continued for 72 hours to ensure the affected areas remained dry, reducing future mold risks.

• Air Scrubbing for Mold Prevention: Industrial air scrubbers processed over 500 cubic feet of air per minute, capturing airborne particles and mold spores. This proactive approach ensured a safe indoor environment throughout the drying phase.

Once mitigation was complete, the independent adjuster submitted a revised claim that accounted for both the visible and hidden water damage as well as mold prevention measures.

Outcome

Thanks to the adjuster's advocacy and the meticulous work of the mitigation team, the insurance company revised their offer to cover the full costs of water mitigation and mold prevention, resulting in a payout increase from $10,000 to $40,000. The restoration team completed the work, ensuring all structural elements were completely dry, free from mold, and safe for occupancy. Walls, floors, and other affected areas were restored to pre-damage conditions, enabling the homeowner to return safely.

This case highlights the critical role of independent adjusters and expert water mitigation teams in securing full insurance coverage for both visible and hidden damages in complex cases like wildfire recovery. The successful outcome not only safeguarded the property’s value but also prioritized the homeowner’s long-term health and safety, avoiding future expenses and restoring peace of mind.