Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Emergency Tarping and Board-Up?

Emergency tarping involves placing a waterproof cover over a damaged roof to prevent rain from entering. Board-up means securing plywood over broken windows, doors, or walls. These are temporary measures to protect the interior from weather, pests, and unauthorized entry after a storm, fire, or other sudden damage. The goal is to prevent a small problem from becoming a much larger, more expensive one.

Local water damage pros can perform these services to stabilize your property. This work is separate from the permanent repairs that will come later. It is a critical first step in the restoration process, as it helps secure the site for safety and further assessment. This immediate action can save you significant money on subsequent repairs by halting additional damage.

Your first call after ensuring safety should be to your insurance company to start a claim. Explain the situation and the immediate need for tarping or board-up. Many insurers will advise you to proceed and will note the authorization on your claim file. It is crucial to get this verbal or written approval before major work begins, if time permits during the emergency.

Take clear photographs and videos of the damage before any temporary protection is installed. This provides visual proof of the initial conditions. Keep all receipts and invoices from the pros who do the work, as these are required for reimbursement. Maintain a log of all communications with your insurer, including dates, times, and the names of representatives you speak with.

• Contact your insurance company immediately to report the damage.
• Document the damage thoroughly with photos and video.
• Request guidance or authorization for emergency protective measures.
• Hire qualified pros to perform the tarping or board-up work.
• Save every receipt and detailed invoice from the service provider.
• Submit all documentation promptly to your claims adjuster.

Experienced local water damage pros understand the insurance claims process. They can provide detailed documentation, including moisture readings and photos, that supports the necessity of their emergency services. They often use standardized pricing software that insurance adjusters recognize, which helps streamline the approval process. The pros work for you, the homeowner, not the insurance company.

Your role is to coordinate between the pros and your insurance adjuster. Provide the pros' report and invoice directly to your adjuster. Be proactive in following up. A clear paper trail showing the urgent situation, your timely action, and the costs helps get these expenses covered.