A water leak can do more than just damage your floors and furniture; it can represent a significant financial threat to your property, one of your biggest investments. A poorly handled insurance claim can leave you paying for expensive repairs out of your own pocket, even when you’ve been paying your premiums faithfully. The key to protecting your financial recovery is understanding the claims process and knowing how to advocate for a fair settlement. This guide is focused on helping you secure the best possible outcome. We’ll explore how to accurately document your losses, track all related expenses, and effectively push back on a lowball offer to ensure your water damage claim results in a settlement that makes you whole again.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the Source of the Water: Insurance policies typically cover sudden and accidental events, like a burst appliance hose, but may deny claims for gradual damage from unresolved maintenance issues or flooding from outside sources.
• Document Everything Before You Clean: Your first step after ensuring safety should be to take extensive photos and videos of the affected areas and damaged items. This visual proof is your most powerful tool for validating your claim.
• Treat the First Offer as a Starting Point: The initial settlement from your insurer is often negotiable. Get independent repair estimates from trusted contractors to understand the true cost of restoration and give you leverage for a fair payout.

What Does Your Insurance Actually Cover for Water Damage?

Figuring out your insurance policy can feel like trying to read a different language, especially when you’re standing in a puddle in your living room. When it comes to water damage, what your policy covers usually boils down to one key question: where did the water come from, and how did it get there? Insurers typically draw a hard line between damage that is “sudden and accidental” and problems that arise over time from a lack of maintenance.

Understanding this distinction is the first step in knowing what to expect from your claim. A pipe that suddenly bursts is a very different scenario from a slow leak that has been dripping for months. One is generally covered, while the other often isn’t. Knowing where your situation falls can help you prepare for the conversation with your insurance company and set realistic expectations for your claim.

Water Damage That’s Usually Covered

As a rule of thumb, most standard homeowner’s insurance policies cover water damage that happens unexpectedly and isn’t the result of your own negligence. Think of events that are sudden and internal. This could include a pipe that bursts under your sink, a washing machine hose that fails and floods the laundry room, or an overflowing toilet or bathtub.

Damage from a leaking roof after a storm or a dishwasher that suddenly malfunctions also tends to fall into this category. The key is that you couldn’t have reasonably predicted or prevented the incident. These are the types of water damage claims that policies are designed to protect you from—the unforeseen accidents that can cause major disruption and expense.

What Your Policy Likely Excludes

On the other hand, insurance is not a home maintenance plan. Insurers will likely deny claims for damage that results from gradual problems or a lack of upkeep. For example, if a slow, dripping pipe under your bathroom sink causes wood rot and mold over several months, your insurer may argue that the damage could have been prevented with routine maintenance.

Other common exclusions include damage from an old roof that you haven’t repaired in years, water seeping in through your foundation, or mold that isn’t the direct result of a covered event (like that burst pipe). Essentially, if the problem was pre-existing or developed over a long period, your policy probably won’t cover the repairs.

Water Damage vs. Flood Damage: Know the Difference

This is a critical point, especially for those of us in Florida. Standard homeowner’s policies do not cover flood damage. It’s important to understand how insurers define a “flood.” Water damage typically refers to water from sources inside your home, like your plumbing or appliances. A flood, however, is defined as rising water from an outside source that enters your property.

This includes events like storm surges, overflowing rivers, or heavy rains that saturate the ground and seep into your home. To be covered for this type of event, you need a separate flood insurance policy. You can typically purchase one through the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer. Without it, you’ll be paying for flood-related repairs out of pocket.

Your First Steps After Discovering Water Damage

Finding water damage in your home or business can feel overwhelming, but the actions you take in the first few hours are critical. Moving quickly and methodically can prevent further damage and set the stage for a smoother insurance claim process. Think of this as your immediate action plan to take control of the situation.

Prioritize Safety and Stop the Leak

Before you do anything else, assess the situation for safety hazards. If water is near electrical outlets, appliances, or your breaker box, there’s a serious risk of shock. If you can safely reach your home’s main circuit breaker, shut off the power to the affected area. If you can’t do this without stepping in water, it’s best to leave the property and call an electrician.

Once the area is safe to enter, your next goal is to stop the water at its source. If a pipe burst or an appliance is leaking, you may be able to turn off the water using a local shut-off valve, usually found under the sink or behind the appliance. If you can’t find it or the source is unclear, shut off the main water valve to your entire property. This step is crucial for preventing the damage from getting worse.

Document the Damage Before You Clean

Your first instinct might be to start cleaning up, but hold off. Before you move a single item, pull out your phone and start documenting everything. Take wide-shot photos and videos of the entire affected area to show the full scope of the damage. Then, get detailed close-ups of soaked carpets, warped flooring, damaged furniture, and any personal belongings that were ruined.

Be sure to capture the source of the leak if you can see it. This visual evidence is one of the most powerful tools you’ll have when filing your claim. It creates a clear “before” picture for your insurance company, making it much harder for them to dispute the extent of your losses later on. Don’t stop taking pictures until you feel you’ve captured every single detail.

Notify Your Insurance Company Right Away

As soon as you’ve stopped the leak and documented the initial damage, call your insurance company to report the loss. Most policies require you to provide “prompt notice,” and waiting too long could give them a reason to deny your claim. When you call, stick to the facts. Tell them what happened, where the damage is, and when you discovered it.

Your agent should open a claim for you and explain the next steps, which usually involves sending out an adjuster. Keep a log of every conversation you have with your insurance company, including the date, time, and the name of the person you spoke with. This record will be incredibly helpful for keeping your claim on track and ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.

Call for Professional Mitigation

For anything more than a small puddle, you’ll likely need professional help. Water mitigation companies have specialized equipment, like commercial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers, to properly dry out your property. This isn’t just about removing visible water; it’s about pulling moisture out of walls, floors, and air to prevent mold growth, which can start in as little as 24 to 48 hours.

Hiring a professional mitigation team shows your insurer that you took reasonable steps to prevent further damage—something most policies require. These companies also provide detailed reports and moisture readings, which serve as expert evidence when handling a water damage claim. It’s a crucial step in protecting both your property and your financial recovery.

How to File Your Water Damage Claim

Filing an insurance claim can feel like a huge task, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of property damage. But breaking it down into manageable steps makes the process much clearer. Once you’ve taken care of immediate safety concerns and documented the scene, it’s time to officially start your claim. This involves contacting your insurer, preparing for the adjuster’s visit, and getting familiar with the fine print of your policy. Taking a calm, organized approach here can make a significant difference in how smoothly the process goes and the final settlement you receive.

Making the First Call to Your Insurer

Your first step is to notify your insurance company about the damage as soon as possible. Most policies include a clause that requires you to report a loss within a specific timeframe, so don’t delay. When you call, have your policy number handy and be prepared to give a straightforward description of what happened. Stick to the facts you know for sure. For example, say “A pipe under the kitchen sink burst and flooded the floor,” rather than guessing about the cause. It’s also a good idea to ask for your claim number and the name of the adjuster assigned to your case before you hang up.

What to Expect from the Insurance Adjuster

After you file the claim, your insurance company will send their own adjuster to inspect the property. Remember, this person works for the insurance company, and their job is to assess the damage from the insurer’s perspective. They will walk through your home, take photos, and create an estimate for the cost of repairs. Be prepared to guide them through all the affected areas. It’s helpful to have your own photos and videos ready to show them exactly what things looked like right after the incident. Don’t throw away any damaged items, like soaked rugs or furniture, until the adjuster has seen them.

Find Your Policy Limits and Deductible

Before you get too deep into negotiations, it’s important to understand the specifics of your coverage. Pull out your policy documents and look for two key things: your deductible and your coverage limits. The deductible is the amount you have to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. You should also check whether your policy covers “Replacement Cost Value” (RCV) or “Actual Cash Value” (ACV). RCV pays to replace your damaged items with new ones, while ACV only pays for their depreciated value. Knowing these details will help you understand the settlement offers you receive for your water damage claim.

What Paperwork Do You Need for Your Claim?

When you’re dealing with the stress of property damage, paperwork is probably the last thing on your mind. But gathering the right documents is one of the most powerful things you can do to support your claim. Think of it as building a case for your home—the more evidence you have, the stronger your position will be when negotiating with the insurance company. A well-documented claim leaves little room for dispute and clearly shows the full extent of your loss.

Your insurance adjuster will ask for proof, and having everything organized and ready can make the process smoother and potentially faster. It shows you’re serious and prepared. This isn’t just about listing what was damaged; it’s about proving its value and the cost to repair or replace it. Taking the time to collect photos, create lists, find receipts, and get professional estimates can make a significant difference in the final settlement amount you receive. It puts you in control of the narrative, rather than leaving it entirely up to the insurer’s assessment.

Take Detailed Photos and Videos

Before you move a single item or start any cleanup, your first job is to become a detective. Grab your phone and document everything. Take wide shots of each affected room to show the overall scope of the damage, then get close-ups of specific items like warped floorboards, stained ceilings, and soaked furniture. Open up cabinets and closets to show what’s inside. A video walkthrough can also be incredibly effective, as you can narrate what you’re seeing. Don’t throw anything away until your adjuster has seen it. This visual evidence is your most compelling proof of what happened and is crucial for a successful water damage claim.

Create an Inventory of Damaged Property

Next, make a detailed list of every single item that was damaged. It might feel tedious, but this inventory is essential. For each item, write down a description, the brand name, model number (if you can find it), its age, and what you originally paid for it. If you don’t know the exact price, an estimate is better than nothing. Being thorough here helps ensure nothing gets overlooked. This list will be the foundation for calculating your personal property losses, so the more detail you can provide, the more accurately your claim can be valued.

Gather Receipts and Proof of Ownership

Your inventory list is a great start, but your insurer will likely want proof of ownership and value for more expensive items. Dig up any receipts, credit card statements, or original packaging you might have. For items without receipts, photos of you using them or original user manuals can sometimes help. Also, be sure to save every receipt related to the incident itself. If you have to stay in a hotel, eat out, or buy emergency supplies because your home is unlivable, these costs may be covered under your policy’s “Additional Living Expenses” coverage. We understand that proving your losses is a key part of the process, and our team at PA Joe is experienced in documenting every detail.

Collect Professional Reports and Estimates

Don’t rely solely on the estimate provided by your insurance company’s adjuster. Their job is to assess the damage, but it’s always a good idea to get your own independent opinions. Contact at least two or three reputable, licensed contractors to provide detailed, written estimates for the repairs. These quotes should break down the costs of labor and materials. Having multiple estimates gives you a realistic idea of the true repair costs and provides powerful leverage if the insurer’s initial offer comes in too low. These professional reports add significant weight to your claim and demonstrate that you’ve done your homework.

Common Mistakes That Can Weaken Your Claim

Filing an insurance claim can feel like walking through a minefield. It’s easy to make a simple mistake that could unfortunately reduce your settlement or even lead to a denial. Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to do. Let’s walk through some of the most common missteps property owners make so you can sidestep them and protect the value of your claim. Handling a water damage claim correctly from the start can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Admitting Fault to the Adjuster

When you speak with the insurance adjuster, the words you choose matter. It’s crucial to be honest, but it’s also important not to speculate or accidentally accept blame. For example, saying something like, “I don’t know how long it’s been leaking,” could be interpreted by the insurer as a long-term maintenance issue, which policies often don’t cover. Stick to the facts you know for sure. Describe what you found and when you found it, but avoid guessing about the cause or timeline.

Taking the First Lowball Offer

After the adjuster assesses the damage, you’ll receive a settlement offer. It can be tempting to accept the first offer just to get the process over with, but this is often a mistake. The initial offer from an insurance company may be lower than what you truly need to cover all the repairs. Think of it as a starting point for negotiations. Before you accept, get independent estimates from trusted contractors to understand the real cost of restoration. If the insurer’s offer doesn’t line up, you have grounds to negotiate for a fairer amount.

Repairing Damage Before It’s Inspected

While you absolutely should take steps to prevent further damage—like stopping the source of the water and calling a mitigation company to dry things out—you should hold off on permanent repairs. Don’t tear out damaged drywall or replace flooring before the insurance adjuster has had a chance to inspect the property. The adjuster needs to see the full extent of the damage to accurately assess your claim. Repairing everything too soon can erase crucial evidence, potentially weakening your position and reducing your final settlement.

Being Unclear About When the Damage Occurred

Your insurance adjuster will ask specific questions about when the damage happened. This is because your policy covers events that are “sudden and accidental,” not gradual problems that have been happening over a long period. Be as precise as you can about when you first discovered the water damage. If you’re not exactly sure, provide the facts you do have, such as, “I discovered the water on Tuesday morning when I woke up.” Avoid vague statements that could make the damage seem like an old, unresolved issue.

How to Get the Best Possible Settlement

After you’ve filed your claim, the next phase is all about making sure you receive a fair settlement that truly covers your losses. This isn’t a passive process where you just wait for a check to arrive in the mail. You have an active role to play in advocating for yourself, and the more prepared you are, the better the outcome is likely to be. The insurance company’s initial assessment is just that—an initial assessment. It’s not the final word, and you absolutely have the right to question it. Remember, the adjuster works for the insurance company, and their goal is often to settle the claim for the lowest amount possible.

Being prepared with your own documentation and understanding the key terms in your policy can make a significant difference in the final payout. Think of it as a negotiation. Your insurer has their numbers, and you need to have yours ready to back up your claim with solid evidence. The following steps will help you build a strong case and confidently work toward the best possible settlement for your water damage claim. It’s about being informed, organized, and persistent, and not being afraid to stand up for what you’re owed under your policy.

Get Several Estimates for Repairs

It’s wise not to rely solely on the estimate provided by your insurance company’s adjuster. Their figure might be based on generic pricing software and could overlook the specific details and costs in your area. For any significant repairs, make it a point to get multiple repair quotes from reputable, licensed contractors. For bigger jobs, talking to several contractors helps you find the best one for the job. These independent estimates serve as powerful evidence if you believe the adjuster’s repair estimate is too low. Having detailed quotes from professionals strengthens your position and provides a realistic benchmark for the cost of restoring your property.

Know the Difference: Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value

Understanding your policy’s terms is crucial, and two of the most important are “Replacement Cost Value” (RCV) and “Actual Cash Value” (ACV). The first payment you receive from your insurer might be based on the ACV, which is what your damaged property is worth today, factoring in depreciation from age and wear. In contrast, RCV policies are designed to cover the cost of replacing your damaged items with new ones of similar kind and quality. You may receive an initial ACV payment, and then you can claim the remaining amount once you’ve actually replaced the items and submitted the receipts. Check your policy to see which type of coverage you have, as it dramatically impacts your total payout.

Track Your Additional Living Expenses

If the water damage is severe enough that you can’t live in your home during repairs, your policy may cover your additional living expenses (ALE). This is often referred to as “Loss of Use” coverage. It can reimburse you for costs like hotel stays, temporary rentals, and even the extra expense of eating at restaurants if you don’t have access to a kitchen. The key is to keep meticulous records. Save every single receipt for these expenses in a dedicated folder or digital file. Without proof of payment, you won’t be able to get reimbursed. Don’t leave this money on the table—it’s a critical part of your coverage designed to help you maintain your normal standard of living.

How to Push Back on a Low Offer

It’s very common for an insurance company’s first settlement offer to be on the low side. Don’t feel pressured to accept it, especially if it doesn’t cover the estimates you’ve received from your own contractors. If the offer seems too low, it’s time to respond professionally. The best approach is to send a written response, like an email, so you have a record of the communication. In your message, include a copy of your preferred contractor’s estimate and clearly state the amount you believe is fair to complete the repairs. This shows the insurer you’ve done your homework. If the process feels intimidating, remember that you can always bring in an expert advocate, like the team at PA Joe, to handle these negotiations for you.

What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied

Receiving a denial letter from your insurance company can feel like a final verdict, but it’s often just the start of a conversation. Understanding why your claim was denied is the first step toward challenging the decision and getting the compensation you deserve. Don’t give up just yet; you have options and resources available to help you fight for a fair outcome.

Why Insurers Deny Water Damage Claims

Insurance companies often deny claims by drawing a line between different types of water damage. Policies typically cover damage that is “sudden and accidental,” like a burst pipe. However, they may deny claims for issues they consider “gradual” or long-term, such as a slow leak under a sink that causes rot over several months. They might view this as a maintenance issue or normal wear and tear. A denial could also happen if the insurer believes negligence was involved—for example, if you didn’t take reasonable steps to prevent the damage. Understanding this distinction is key to building your case for an appeal.

How to Appeal the Decision

If you believe your claim was unfairly denied, you have the right to appeal. Start by formally requesting a review of the decision in writing. Your policy should outline the specific steps for an appeal. Be prepared to provide additional documentation or evidence to support your case. If you and your insurer still can’t reach an agreement, other options may be available, such as mediation or appraisal, which involve a neutral third party to help resolve the dispute. It’s also worth noting that some insurers may choose not to renew a policy after a large claim, which is something to keep in mind as you move forward.

When to Call a Public Adjuster for Help

Navigating the appeals process on your own can be overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with property damage. This is often the right time to bring in a professional. A public adjuster works for you, not the insurance company. They can manage the entire appeals process, from re-evaluating the damage to negotiating directly with your insurer. If your claim is complex or involves significant damage, having an expert on your side can make a substantial difference. At PA Joe, we specialize in re-opening denied claims and fighting for a fair settlement, and we only get paid if you do.

Know Your Rights as a Policyholder

When you’re dealing with property damage, it can feel like your insurance company holds all the cards. But your insurance policy is a contract, and you have rights as a policyholder. Understanding these rights is one of the most powerful tools you have during the claims process. It helps you know what to expect, what to ask for, and when to push back if something doesn’t seem right. Insurance companies have a legal obligation to handle your claim fairly and in a timely manner. Knowing the basics of your policy and the rules they have to follow can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim.

It’s not about becoming a legal expert overnight; it’s about being an informed consumer who can advocate for their own best interests. Think of it as learning the rules of the game before you start playing. This knowledge can help you stay in control of the process and ensure you’re treated fairly from start to finish. Many homeowners feel intimidated by the jargon and the formal process, but remember that you are paying for this coverage. You are entitled to the benefits outlined in your policy, and there are regulations in place to protect you from unfair practices. Taking the time to get familiar with your rights can prevent you from leaving money on the table or accepting a denial that should have been an approval.

Review Your Policy’s Terms and Conditions

Your insurance policy can feel like a dense, complicated document, but a few key sections are crucial to understand. First, look for whether your policy covers “Replacement Cost Value” (RCV) or “Actual Cash Value” (ACV). RCV pays to replace your damaged items with new ones, while ACV only pays for their depreciated value. It’s also important to know what types of water damage are covered. Most standard policies will cover sudden and accidental events, like a burst pipe or a washing machine overflow. However, they often exclude damage from gradual leaks, poor maintenance, or flooding from natural disasters, which typically requires a separate policy.

Florida’s Rules for Insurance Claims

As a Florida resident, you have specific protections under state law. The Florida Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights requires insurance companies to acknowledge your claim promptly, provide necessary forms, and pay or deny the claim within a set timeframe. Your insurer must act in good faith and treat you fairly throughout the process. If they deny your claim or offer a settlement that seems far too low, you don’t have to simply accept it. Understanding these rules gives you a solid foundation for holding your insurance company accountable and ensuring they meet their obligations.

How to Spot Insurance Bad Faith

Insurance bad faith happens when an insurer fails to honor its obligations to you without a reasonable cause. The adjuster sent by your insurance company works for them, not you, and their primary goal is often to minimize the payout. Signs of bad faith can include unreasonable delays in processing your claim, offering a settlement that is drastically lower than repair estimates, or misrepresenting your policy’s coverage. If you feel your insurer is intentionally dragging its feet or pressuring you into an unfair settlement, it may be a sign that you need professional help. An experienced public adjuster can step in to advocate on your behalf and fight for the fair settlement you deserve.

How Long Will the Claim Process Take?

It’s the question every property owner asks: “How long until this is over?” While there’s no single answer, many insurance companies aim to resolve claims within 30 to 45 days. However, this is just a general guideline. The actual timeline for your water damage claim can vary quite a bit depending on the complexity of the damage, the details of your policy, and how the claim is managed.

Several factors can stretch out the process, from initial disagreements over repair costs to the need for more detailed inspections. Understanding the potential roadblocks and the typical steps involved can help you set realistic expectations and keep things moving forward. The key is to be prepared for the journey ahead and know what you can do to stay on track.

What Can Slow Down Your Claim?

Ideally, your claim would move quickly and smoothly, but delays are common. One of the main reasons for a slowdown is a disagreement over the scope of the damage and the cost of repairs. The adjuster sent by your insurance company works for them, and their primary goal is to protect the insurer’s bottom line. Their estimate might be lower than what contractors quote, or it could overlook hidden issues like potential mold growth.

Disputes over whether the cause of the damage is covered by your policy can also bring things to a halt. If the insurance company needs more information or wants to conduct a more thorough investigation, you can expect the timeline to extend. Delays in communication, either from your side or the insurer’s, can also add unnecessary waiting time to the process.

A Step-by-Step Timeline of What to Expect

While every claim is unique, the process generally follows a predictable path. Knowing these steps can help you feel more in control.

First, your insurance company will assign an adjuster to your case. This person will schedule a time to visit your property to inspect the damage, take photos, and measure the affected areas.

Next, the adjuster will use their findings to write up a report and an estimate for the repair costs. You’ll then receive this estimate, often along with an initial check. This first payment is typically based on the Actual Cash Value (ACV) of your damaged property, which is its value today after factoring in depreciation. It may not be enough to cover the full cost of replacement.

How to Keep Your Claim on Track

Staying proactive is the best way to prevent unnecessary delays. Your first move should be to document everything. Take clear photos and videos of all the damaged areas and belongings before any cleanup or repairs begin. This visual evidence is crucial.

Keep a dedicated folder for all claim-related paperwork, including emails with your insurer, receipts for any immediate repairs (like hiring a plumber to stop the leak), and a log of every conversation. When it comes to major repairs, don’t just rely on the insurance adjuster’s numbers. Get at least two or three detailed quotes from your own trusted contractors. This gives you a realistic idea of the true repair cost and provides powerful leverage if you need to negotiate a higher settlement. Managing all these details can be overwhelming, which is why many property owners choose to work with a public adjuster who can handle the entire water damage claim for them.

Related Articles

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• Why Would a Water Damage Claim Be Denied? Your Next Steps – Public Adjuster

Frequently Asked Questions

My insurance company wants me to use their preferred contractor. Do I have to? This is a very common question, and the short answer is typically no. While your insurer may recommend contractors from their network, you generally have the right to choose your own licensed and insured contractor for the repairs. Using their recommendation can sometimes streamline the process, but it’s always wise to get your own independent estimates to ensure the scope of work and pricing are fair. Your priority is making sure your property is restored correctly, and that means working with a contractor you trust.

I already cleaned up some of the water before taking photos. Is it too late to file a claim? It’s definitely not too late. While it’s ideal to document the damage at its worst, don’t panic if you’ve already started cleaning. Your policy requires you to prevent further damage, so taking immediate steps to dry the area is the right thing to do. You can still take photos of the aftermath, including water-stained baseboards, warped flooring, and any items you had to throw away. Just be prepared to explain to the adjuster what the scene looked like initially and the steps you took to mitigate the problem.

The insurance adjuster’s estimate seems way too low. What should I do? Receiving an estimate that feels too low is a very common part of the claims process. Remember, the insurer’s initial offer is a starting point for negotiation, not the final word. Your best response is to provide your own evidence. This is where getting multiple, detailed quotes from your own trusted contractors becomes so important. You can present these estimates to the adjuster to show the true market cost for the repairs in your area and make a strong case for a higher settlement.

My insurer sent me a check, but it’s not enough to cover all the repairs. Is that all I get? Not necessarily. The first check you receive is often for the “Actual Cash Value” (ACV) of your damages, which is the value of your property minus depreciation. If your policy includes “Replacement Cost Value” (RCV) coverage, you may be entitled to additional payments. You can typically claim the remaining amount, known as the recoverable depreciation, after you complete the repairs and submit the final invoices to the insurance company as proof.

When is the right time to call a public adjuster for help? You can bring in a public adjuster at any point in the claims process, but many people find it most helpful right at the beginning to avoid potential mistakes. It’s an especially good idea to call for help if your claim is complex, the damage is extensive, or you’ve received a denial. If you feel overwhelmed by the paperwork, confused by the adjuster’s estimate, or simply don’t have the time to manage the process, an expert can step in to handle the negotiations and advocate for your best interests.