6/29/2023 0 Comments 5 step infographicTo support the claims process so it goes smoothly, speak with your agent about your insurance policy and what it covers and provide the photos and videos of your flood loss organized by room to your adjuster. Your claims adjuster should help you document the flood damage for your claim, according to FEMA. "The adjuster should never ask you for money or collect your deductible amount," FEMA states.Īfter your inspection, your adjuster should give you more information about what else you need to do and what will happen next. While meeting with a claims adjuster, ask about getting an advance payment to help you start recovering and about increased cost of insurance. When you meet with your adjuster, they should give you an explanation of the National Flood Insurance Program Flood Claims Process, an inspection of your property where they will scope your loss by taking measurements and photos, an explanation of what an advance payment is and how or if you can get one, information on presenting your loss to your insurance company and a discussion about your policy coverage. According to FEMA, they should also provide you with their contact information. When meeting with a claims adjuster, they should show you official identification, such as a driver’s license, company ID and flood control number card. In addition, be sure to contact your local building department and floodplain administrator to get information on whether your property was substantially damaged and if a building permit is necessary. "It’s important to consult your adjuster or insurance company before you sign any agreement/contract with a cleaning, remediation, or maintenance contractor." "Contact repair services if the building’s electrical, water or HVAC systems are damaged," FEMA states. "For your building items, keep some samples (swatches) and also photograph items like water-damaged carpet (and or other flooring), wallpaper and drapes before disposing of them so you can show them to your adjuster during the inspection."Īfter taking photos and videos, immediately throw away any flooded items that pose a health risk, including perishable food items, clothing, cushions and pillows. "For items like washers and dryers, hot water heaters, kitchen appliances, televisions, and computers, make sure you take a photograph of the make, model, and serial number," FEMA states. All photos should be taken before moving or removing anything. The claims adjuster will need evidence of the damage to your home and possessions in order to prepare a repair estimate.Īccording to FEMA, the photos and videos should document structural damage, standing floodwater levels inside and outside and damage to appliances and furniture. "Advance payments are deducted from the final claim payment."Īfter making sure it is safe to enter your home, take as any photos and videos of damaged property as possible, even items you plan to throw away. "When reporting the claim ask about getting an Advance Payment to help you start recovering," the FEMA "How Do I Start My Flood Claim?" page states. However, depending on flooding severity and local conditions, it may take more time. In general, an adjuster will reach out within 48 hours after a claim is reported, according to FEMA. The program's representatives at the call center will be able to tell you who your insurance provider is and the best way to contact them. If you can't find your insurance carrier, reach out to the National Flood Insurance Program Call Center at 1-80. To contact your insurance company, find their toll-free phone number. When reporting a claim, be ready to provide the name of your insurance company, your policy number, a phone number and email address where you can be reached and the name of any mortgage company (if applicable). Step 1: Contact your insurance company to start your claimįlood insurance policies require prompt written notice of loss after storms and flooding. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, there are five steps in filing a flood insurance claim.
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