Moving is stressful. But, imagine opening a moving box to find broken dishes, dented electronics, or damage in any form. That can ruin your whole day. And who is responsible if something gets damaged during a move? Chances are it’s mover’s fault, but that’s not always a rule. It depends on several different factors.
Reputable movers have insurance that protects both you and them. So, you need to know how to find reliable movers in Tampa. From their point of view, it saves their business from a devastation in the case of a major claim. But, accidents happen. For you, it provides compensation in the event of loss or damage. Here’s how to determine who is responsible if something gets damaged during a move?
Damage to the home – Who is responsible if something gets damaged during a move?
When it comes to the damage of the home, old or new one, the mover is usually responsible. Before relocation, take photos of your home to record its condition. But, know what things to photograph when moving (and why). Then, if the damage is evident during or after the movers arrive, there’ll be no question about who is responsible. But, movers might not be responsible if the damage was inevitable.
Damage to your belongings – Who is responsible if something gets damaged during a move?
When movers pack and relocate your belongings, you expect to find them in the same condition. However, accidents are possible. The responsibility might boil down to one thing. That is who did the packing job. If movers did it, you should bear no responsibility for the damage. However, if you did the packing, movers might be innocent.
In case you pack belongings and the movers damage it, you probably argue for reimbursement. But, check the moving contract.
Protecting yourself
Protect yourself against loss by taking an inventory of your belongings beforehand, and by taking photos. Again, accidents happen. So, when you’re moving from LA to Tampa with a large family, your carton can disappear during transport. To prove its existence and condition of belongings you need an inventory and photos. You can use moving apps for this. Also, a spreadsheet and digital photos or a simple ledger with pictures will do the job.
Filing a claim
Sometimes you have no choice besides filing a claim after your move is complete. You might not reimburse the full value of the damaged item, but the more information you provide, the better your chances. The process isn’t difficult because most movers use a standardized form. Here’s how to do it:
- Notify moving company of damage right away.
- Gather evidence that proves it. Take photos, and don’t throw away anything.
- Fill out the mover’s claim form as soon as you can.
- Enter information about the damaged item. Like, the inventory number of the item and how did the damage happen. Then, how much you paid for the damaged item and the value of it. Also, include photographs.
- Keep that item until after the claim is settled.
- If you miss the item, give the same information.