The short answer
When a Police Report Matters
A police report becomes relevant if the water damage stems from a crime. Examples include a burglary where a pipe was broken, vandalism that caused a leak, or a vehicle crashing into your building and damaging a water line. In those cases, the report documents the event for your insurance claim and for any legal follow-up.
For routine water damage, such as a burst pipe, an overflowing toilet, or a roof leak after a storm, you do not need to involve the police. The cause is accidental, not criminal. Your focus should be on stopping the water, documenting the damage with photos, and contacting your insurance company to start the claims process.
How to File a Report Properly
If you decide a police report is necessary, call the non-emergency number for your local police department. Do not call 911 unless there is an immediate threat to safety. Explain the situation clearly, including the cause of the damage and any evidence you have. The officer may visit the property or ask you to come to the station.
When the report is filed, ask for a copy or a case number. Your insurance company will likely request this documentation. Keep it with your other claim paperwork. Also, take your own photos and notes, since the police report may not capture every detail that matters for your claim.
- Call the non-emergency police line, not 911
- Provide the exact address and time of the incident
- Describe any visible damage and possible cause
- List any witnesses or security footage you have
- Request a copy of the report or case number
- Keep the report with your insurance claim documents
Documenting Damage for Insurance
Your insurance company relies on your documentation, not just a police report. Take clear photos or videos of the water damage, including the source of the leak, affected walls, floors, and any belongings. Write down the date and time you noticed the damage and any steps you took to stop it.
Keep a record of the weather on the day of the damage, especially if storms were in the forecast. That can help clarify whether the cause was storm-related. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to understand what evidence they require for a claim.
When You Might Skip the Report
Skip the police report for accidental water damage like a faulty appliance, a slow leak from a pipe, or a sewage backup from a clog. These are not crimes, and a report adds no value. Instead, focus on preventing further damage and starting the cleanup process.
If the damage is extensive, a water damage inspection can help identify the full scope. Local water damage pros can assess the affected areas and recommend steps. They do not need a police report to begin their work. Your insurance company may also send an adjuster, but that is separate from law enforcement.
Protecting Your Property After an Incident
After any water damage, your priority is safety and stopping the flow. Turn off the main water valve if you can do so safely. Move valuable items away from the water. If the damage involves electrical hazards, turn off the power at the breaker and call an electrician. Never enter a flooded room with standing water near outlets.
Document everything, then contact your insurance company. They can guide you on next steps, including whether a police report is required. For commercial spaces like a store or restaurant, check your lease or business policy for specific reporting rules. Keep all receipts for temporary repairs, as they may be part of your claim.
- Turn off the main water valve if safe
- Move furniture and valuables to dry areas
- Turn off electricity in affected rooms
- Call an electrician if wires are wet
- Take photos before any cleanup begins
- Save receipts for emergency repairs
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
Will my insurance company ask for a police report?
Sometimes, especially if the damage looks like it came from theft or vandalism. For accidental water damage, they usually accept photos and your written explanation. Check your policy, and ask your claims adjuster directly. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
What if I cannot get a police report quickly?
You can still file your insurance claim without it. Start the claim, provide your photos and notes, and let the adjuster know a report is pending. The report can be added later. Do not delay cleanup or repairs while waiting for the police.
Does a police report speed up the water damage restoration?
No. The report is for legal and insurance purposes, not for the restoration work. Local water damage pros focus on drying, cleaning, and repairing the affected areas. They do not need a police report to begin their work, so you can schedule them right away.