What Happens If Items Get Damaged During a Move? – Moving to a new place is one of those stressful journeys. On the other hand, moving to a new house is associated with numerous issues. The thing many homeowners and tenants alike worry about during a move is possible property damage. Scratched tables, broken televisions, and smashed antiques are just a few of the problems that could arise during a move.
In this regard, it is vital to know how to proceed should any damage occur to your property during a move. Learning more about your rights, moving company liability, and claims can help you handle the issue in an efficient way.
What Does a Moving Company Liability Mean?
When you hire a professional mover, they are fully responsible for transporting your possessions in one piece. Nonetheless, there may be some accidents while the moving process is being completed despite all of the precautionary measures. All moving companies offer different types of liability coverage that determine how the matter will be discussed in case of damage or loss.
It is crucial to note that moving company liability does not mean that moving firms have insurance of their own. Rather, movers provide different levels of protection that define how much compensation you may get if damage occurs.
Common Reasons for Damages When Moving
Many factors may contribute to damage when relocating, and among others, there are:
- Improper packing of fragile things
- Rough handling while loading and unloading
- Poor stacking inside the moving van
- Sharp changes in the moving van
- Weather damages
- Falls and accidents
Despite the fact that professional movers try to prevent them, all kinds of moves carry some risks.
Actions to Take After Damage
In case the damage is found after the move, certain actions should be taken. They will significantly increase the possibility of getting appropriate compensation.
1. Thorough Inspection
Firstly, you need to do a thorough inspection of your new furniture, packed boxes, and other valuables. You should look for any visible signs of damage, like marks, dents, scratches, and even some missing parts.
2. Document the Damage
Photographs and video footage taken from different angles are crucial. Also, it will be helpful if you have close-up photos of the damaged parts.
3. Keep All the Packing Materials
It is recommended not to throw away boxes, packaging materials, and wrapping immediately. These packages can serve as proof during the claims process.
4. Contacting the Moving Company
Get in touch with the moving company as soon as possible. Many moving companies require damage claims to be submitted within certain time frames.
Filing a Damage Claim
Most reputable moving companies have a process for handling damage claims. The documents that you must include when making a claim include:
- Photographs of the damaged property
- Inventory
- Purchase proofs or valuation
- Receipts from delivery
- Description of the damage sustained
The moving company will investigate and decide whether you will receive compensation.
Forms of Compensation Available
Depending on the coverage and terms of the moving company, the compensation will take the form of any of the following:
Repair
The mover repairs the damaged property through an authorized repair facility.
Replacement
Where the mover cannot repair the damage, they replace the damaged goods with similar properties of equal value.
Settlement in Cash
At times, the moving company decides to compensate you with money based on the value of the damaged property or the agreed insurance policy.
Understanding Terms by Moving Companies
When you hire moving companies, there are two types of coverage you may encounter.
Basic Liability Coverage
This is normally done without incurring any extra charges. The problem, however, is that compensation is usually made based on the weight of the items rather than their true value. This makes such a claim inadequate, especially for those expensive but light objects.
Full Value Protection
The advantage of this is that movers may either repair, replace, or even compensate your lost, damaged, or destroyed items depending on their worth. While you will be charged an extra fee for it, many people think it is well worth the money for expensive objects.
Tips to Avoid Damaging Your Belongings During the Move
It might be nice to have the above claims, but presentation is always preferable over damage. Below are a few moving tips to make sure things go smoothly:
- Find a reputable and professional moving firm
- Use quality packing materials.
- Be sure to label all boxes containing breakable objects.
- List all your goods in detail.
- Photograph your valuables before packing up.
- Consider purchasing extra insurance for expensive belongings.
- Handle electronics and antiques carefully.
Following these steps will ensure you have fewer problems during your move.
When Movers May Refuse Compensation
Some of the reasons for denying damage claims include:
- Damage resulting from improperly packing of possessions on one’s own.
- Damage that already existed but had no documentation.
- Delay in filing the claim past the allowed period.
- The lack of sufficient evidence for support.
This shows the significance of documentation even before the move and afterward.
Conclusion
In case some of the goods get damaged during the moving process, there is no need to worry since most professional moving companies will always come up with solutions to compensate for the damaged items in a move. It is essential to understand the coverage, document any damage, and take the appropriate action to safeguard oneself.
Moving is now easier when relying on professional moving services, like Robin Removalist, that will guarantee the safety of all your assets throughout the relocation process. Contact Robin Removalist today to learn more about their relocation services.
FAQs
If I see damage after the moving company leaves, what do I do?
You need to take pictures, hold on to your packaging materials, and notify the moving company right away to start making your claim.
Will the moving company reimburse me for all the damaged items?
This will depend on what kind of coverage you have chosen and under what conditions the damage occurred.
Do I have a deadline to make my claim?
Each moving company can have different timelines, so you must check your moving contract.
Will my home insurance compensate for any damage from the move?
Depending on my insurance policy, you may have coverage in some cases. It is important to ask about this before you move.
Can I ensure that nothing gets broken during my move?
It is difficult to guarantee complete safety during a move, but taking appropriate precautions can minimize the risk of damaging your belongings.
