Los Angeles Claims Adjuster Property and Causality Practice Exam

What action should an insured take during a storm after damage has occurred?

1. Wait for the storm to pass to mitigate loss

2. Immediately replace all damaged property

3. Protect the property as soon as reasonably possible

4. Contact the insurer without taking any action

The correct answer is: Protect the property as soon as reasonably possible

The most appropriate action for an insured to take during a storm after damage has occurred is to protect the property as soon as reasonably possible. This involves taking reasonable steps to prevent further damage to the property, such as covering broken windows, moving belongings to a safe location, or placing buckets under leaks. This is crucial because the insured has a duty to mitigate their losses, which means they must act to prevent additional damage that could worsen the situation and lead to higher claims costs. In the context of insurance claims, demonstrating that steps were taken to minimize damage can be vital for the insured when filing a claim. Insurers often assess the insured's responsiveness in mitigating damages when determining claim settlements. While waiting for the storm to pass may seem like a safer option, it can lead to increased damage if significant risks are present. Replacing all damaged property immediately is not advisable as it may not only lead to additional expenses but could also complicate the insurance claim process. Additionally, contacting the insurer without taking any action does not fulfill the requirement of taking reasonable steps to protect the property and could be viewed unfavorably during the claims assessment.