How to File a Flood Insurance Claim
When your Property is Damaged by a Flood.
- If possible, photograph the outside of the premises, showing the
flooding and the damage. Also, photograph the inside of the premises,
showing the damaged property and the height of the water.
- If you have flood insurance, start by calling your insurance agent
to report your claim. The agent will prepare a Notice of Loss form and
an adjuster will be assigned to assist you.
- Separate the damaged from the undamaged property and put it in the
best possible order for the adjuster's examination. If reasonably possible,
protect the property from further damage.
- When the adjuster visits your property, let him or her know if you need
an advance or partial payment of loss. Again, good records can assist the
NFIP in giving you an advance payment. Use your inventory to work with the
adjuster in presenting your claim.
- Damaged property which presents a health hazard or which may hamper
local clean-up operations should be disposed of. Be sure to adequately
describle discarded items so that, when the adjuster examines your losses
and your records, these articles are included in the documentation.
- Good records speed up settlement of your claim. Compile a room-by-room
inventory of missing or damaged goods, and include manufacturers' names, dates
and places of purchases, and prices. Try to locate receipts or proofs of
purchase, especially for major appliances, and note the manufacturers'
names, serial numbers, model numbers, prices, and dates of purchase.
- Be sure to submit your signed and sworn Proof of Loss form within 60
days after the date of loss.
Back to Regional Weather Information Center Flood Page.
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