Four Essential Steps To Follow When Making a Flood Damage Claim

8/8/2021 (Permalink)

Wet carpet due to a recent storm in Antioch, TN

What To Do If Your Home Is Damaged In a Flood

Tune in to the morning or evening news during certain times of the year, and you will likely see coverage related to flooding in some parts of the country. Now imagine if that flooding happened to your home or property in Antioch, TN. Would you know what to do to make a flood claim? Having a step-by-step plan can ease your angst.

1. Report Loss Immediately

Once you have checked your insurance policy to see if it covers flood damage, you should contact your insurance agent or carrier as soon as possible. Information that you will likely need to have on hand is a telephone number and/or email address where you can be reached, the property location and your policy number.

2. Document All Damage

Before removing any damaged items from your home, you should take pictures and videos of each item and make a detailed list to include dates of purchase, value of the items, model numbers and serial numbers. Receipts can be very helpful to have as well. Additionally, any structural damage, standing water and damaged vehicles should be photographed or videoed.

3. Make Minor Repairs

While waiting for an adjuster to assess the damage for your flood claim, you may need to address issues such as mold and wet carpet immediately. By having a professional manage the water damage and mold restoration process, your home can remain habitable while you go through the insurance claim process.

4. File Proof of Loss

After the adjuster inspects your property and home, he or she will more than likely provide you with a proof of loss document to complete, which is required by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Within 60 days of the flooding, this completed, signed to and sworn to proof-of-loss form, along with supporting documentation and the estimate provided by the adjuster, should be filed with your insurance company for review.

Take the time to learn what to do if your home is damaged in a flood. By following these four steps, you can prepare yourself beforehand on how to make a flood claim.