Duty to Mitigate
Plain English
The duty to mitigate means that after damage, you're expected to take reasonable steps to stop it getting worse, like tarping a roof or shutting off water. Policies list it among your duties after a loss. Insurers usually reimburse reasonable costs for this, but they may not pay for extra damage that came from doing nothing.
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On this page
Definition
The duty to mitigate is a policyholder's obligation after a loss to take reasonable steps to protect property from further damage, such as temporary repairs. Policies typically include it among the duties after loss, and damage caused by failing to mitigate may not be covered.
Why It Matters
It protects your claim. If a leak keeps running for days because no one acted, the extra damage may be denied.
Real-World Example
Imagine a pipe bursts while a family is home. They shut off the main valve, mop up and set fans running, keeping receipts for the fans. The insurer pays for the water damage and reimburses the fan rental. Had they left the water running for days, the added damage could have been disputed.
Common Misconceptions
- Waiting for the adjuster before doing anything.
- Doing permanent repairs before inspection, when temporary ones would do.
Key Takeaways
- Texas Department of Insurance: "Make only temporary repairs to protect your house and belongings."
- Keep receipts for mitigation costs; policies usually reimburse reasonable ones.
- Photograph damage before and after temporary repairs.
- The duty appears in your policy's conditions after a loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my insurer pay for the tarp?
Usually, as a reasonable cost to protect the property after a covered loss. Keep the receipt.
What's it commonly confused with?
Making permanent repairs, which usually wait for the adjuster.
Related Terms
Related Coverages
- Homeowners Insurance
Related Scenarios
Explore the rest of the Claims category.
Browse Claims terms →Sources
The factual claims on this page were checked against these sources. Rules and figures change, so check the source itself if you need to confirm the current version.
- Home insurance guideTexas Department of Insurance
Educational information, not advice: This page is for general education only, not legal, financial, or insurance advice. Actual coverage, discounts, and requirements depend on your policy’s wording, your insurer, and the laws of your state. Confirm specifics with your own insurer or a licensed agent before making a decision. Insurpedia does not sell insurance and does not recommend specific insurers.