Walkthrough from loss to repair
- Report the loss.Notify your insurer promptly. Mention that the building is older and that suspect materials may be involved.
- Photograph before anything moves.Capture the damaged areas, including close-ups of flooring, ceilings and insulation that may need testing.
- Tell the adjuster testing is needed.Explain that removal of certain materials must wait for inspection results, and ask how the policy treats testing and abatement.
- Keep the inspection report.Send the adjuster the certified inspector's report, including lab results and the inspector's certification details.
- Submit abatement proposals.Provide written scopes, not just totals, so the adjuster can see what is being removed and why.
- Close out with paperwork.Send clearance results and disposal records when the abatement is finished, along with photos of the completed area.
Your claim file should hold
- Date and cause of loss, with photos and video.
- Any mitigation invoices and drying logs.
- The asbestos inspection report and lab results.
- Certification details for the inspector and abatement contractor, verified with CDPHE.
- Abatement proposal and scope.
- Any CDPHE permit or notification paperwork, if required.
- Clearance results.
- Waste shipment records.
- Correspondence with the adjuster, with dates.
Common questions from adjusters, and what answers them
| Adjuster asks | Document that answers it |
|---|---|
| Why did drying or tear-out take longer than usual? | Inspection report date, lab turnaround and a written timeline |
| Was the material damaged by the covered loss? | Photos of the damage and the inspector's notes on condition |
| Why is abatement needed instead of normal demolition? | Positive lab results and the quantities affected |
| Is the contractor qualified? | Certification numbers confirmed with CDPHE |
| Was the work completed properly? | Clearance results and waste shipment record |
Questions to ask your insurer
- Does my policy cover testing for asbestos when it is needed to repair a covered loss?
- Is abatement of damaged materials treated as part of the covered repair?
- Will you send your own consultant, or rely on my inspector's report?
- Do you need to approve the abatement proposal before work starts?
- How should I document additional living expenses if containment keeps us out of part of the home?
Common questions
The adjuster wants work to move faster. What should I do?
Share the inspection timeline in writing and explain that removing suspect materials before results would risk a much larger contamination cleanup. Ask which parts of mitigation can proceed in the meantime, and keep a written record of the conversation.
Does my policy cover asbestos at all?
Policies differ, and many treat asbestos differently depending on whether a covered event damaged it. Read your policy and ask your agent or adjuster directly. This guide cannot interpret your coverage.
Should I hire my own inspector if the insurer sends one?
You may. Some owners prefer their own certified inspector so they control the report. Either way, ask for a copy of every report and lab result produced for your property.
General information for the Denver area, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.