An adjuster is investigating a water damage claim. The homeowner says a pipe burst spontaneously. What investigation steps should the adjuster take?

WATER DAMAGE CLAIM INVESTIGATION requires systematic fact-gathering to determine COVERAGE and CAUSE. The adjuster's investigation steps: (1) INSPECT the property: examine the damaged area (walls, flooring, ceiling, contents); document with photographs and measurements; assess extent of water migration (moisture readings); (2) EXAMINE THE SOURCE: inspect the failed pipe or fixture; assess condition (old, corroded, frozen, improper installation, or sudden break); plumbing failures may be sudden and accidental (covered) or the result of long-term corrosion/neglect (potentially not covered or a maintenance exclusion applies); (3) DETERMINE CAUSE: sudden vs. gradual damage is a critical coverage distinction; SUDDEN AND ACCIDENTAL (covered under most homeowners policies): burst pipe from freezing; sudden rupture from pressure; GRADUAL DAMAGE (often excluded): slow leak over months; seepage; inadequate maintenance (e.g., allowing pipes to freeze due to not heating the home); (4) DOCUMENT DAMAGE: identify and itemize all damaged materials and contents; take moisture readings (determine drying scope); (5) VERIFY TIMELINE: when did the homeowner notice the damage? Does anything suggest the damage occurred over an extended period rather than suddenly? Weather records for freeze events if burst pipe from cold; (6) CONSULT EXPERTS: a licensed plumber's opinion may be needed for complex causes; water mitigation specialist for remediation scope; (7) REVIEW POLICY: check coverage, exclusions (seepage, flood, mold if pre-existing), deductible, and coverage limits. COMMON ISSUES: mold from water damage may be a separate coverage issue; flood is excluded from standard homeowners (requires separate flood insurance — NFIP); subrogation potential if a plumber improperly installed the pipe.