Securing Your Property After a Loss: Why Immediate Action Matters
When disaster strikes—whether it's a fire, storm damage, or water intrusion—the chaos and emotional toll can be overwhelming. In the midst of dealing with insurance claims and recovery plans, one critical responsibility often gets overlooked: securing your property against theft and unauthorized entry.
As St. Louis public adjusters, we've seen too many cases where property owners suffered additional losses simply because they didn't take immediate steps to secure their damaged property. Here's why this matters and what you need to do right away.
Why Damaged Properties Are Vulnerable
A damaged property sends a clear signal to opportunistic criminals. Broken windows, damaged doors, missing roof sections, or even just the visible signs of a recent disaster can make your property an easy target. Thieves know that:
Owners may not be present or monitoring the property closely
Response times from authorities may be slower during widespread disasters
Valuable items may still be inside, often in plain view
The property may remain unsecured for days or weeks during the claims process
Beyond theft, unsecured properties face other risks, including vandalism, squatters taking up residence, and additional weather damage through exposed openings.
Your Duty to Mitigate Further Loss
Here's something many property owners don't realize: your insurance policy requires you to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage after a covered loss. This is called your "duty to mitigate."
Failing to secure your property isn't just risky—it can actually jeopardize your insurance claim. If your insurer determines that you didn't take reasonable precautions and additional damage or theft occurred as a result, they may deny coverage for those subsequent losses.
Immediate Steps to Secure Your Property
1. Board Up Openings
If you have broken windows, damaged doors, or holes in your walls, these need to be covered immediately with plywood or other sturdy materials. This is typically one of the first emergency services to arrange.
2. Tarp Roof Damage
Exposed roof areas should be covered with heavy-duty tarps secured properly to prevent water intrusion and further structural damage. Don't wait for permanent repairs—temporary protection is essential.
3. Lock and Secure All Entry Points
Change locks if keys were lost or stolen, and ensure all remaining doors and windows are properly secured. Consider adding additional locks or security bars to vulnerable entry points.
4. Install Temporary Fencing
For commercial properties or extensive residential damage, temporary fencing around the perimeter can deter trespassers and clearly mark the property boundaries.
5. Arrange for Security Monitoring
Depending on the extent of damage and the property's location, you might need:
Security cameras or alarm systems
Motion-sensor lighting
Regular security patrols
On-site security guards for high-value properties
6. Remove or Secure Valuables
If possible, remove valuable items from the property and store them in a secure location. Document everything you remove with extensive photos and detailed lists.
Document Everything for Your Claim
As you take steps to secure your property, keep detailed records:
Take photos and videos before and after securing the property
Save all receipts for materials and services used for emergency repairs
Keep a log of all actions taken with dates and times
Get written estimates or invoices from contractors
These emergency mitigation expenses are typically covered by your insurance policy, but you need documentation to get reimbursed.
When to Call a Public Adjuster
Navigating the claims process while dealing with property damage and security concerns is stressful. A public adjuster can:
Guide you on the appropriate mitigation steps that will be covered
Document the damage and your mitigation efforts properly
Ensure you're reimbursed for all emergency security measures
Handle communications with your insurance company
Maximize your claim settlement so you can fully recover
Remember, the insurance company's adjuster works for the insurer—not for you. A public adjuster works exclusively on your behalf to ensure you receive the full settlement you're entitled to under your policy.
Don't Wait—Act Now
Property security after a loss isn't something you can put off until tomorrow. Every hour your property remains unsecured increases the risk of theft, vandalism, or additional damage. Take immediate action to protect your property, document everything, and reach out to a qualified public adjuster who can guide you through the entire claims process.
Your property has already suffered one loss—don't let inadequate security lead to another.
