Filing Insurance Claims

The following steps should be taken to file an insurance claim for flood damage to your home.

• Call your insurance adjuster immediately.
• Follow up on your call with a letter detailing the problem. Keep a copy of the letter.
• Begin cleanup and salvage as soon as possible. Don't wait for an adjuster, but do take photos before any cleanup for use as an inventory.
• Keep damaged materials for proof of loss.
• Leave phone number where you can be reached when adjuster arrives.
• Adjuster will assess damages to house. Owner should sign proof of loss statement. Additional damage can be added when found.
• If looting should occur, report any theft to the police.
• Protect your property from further damage by making temporary repairs. Save receipts for reimbursement. If your home is uninhabitable, save all receipts relating to your temporary lodging and food.
• Make a list of damaged articles, and provide any other information the adjuster requests to process your claim. Prepare a copy of all information delivered to the insurance company.
• Review the settlement steps outlined in your policy. If you're dissatisfied with the proposed settlement offer, explain your position. If there's a significant difference between what the insurance company offers and what you believe you're entitled to, you may wish to submit the dispute to arbitration.
• Some policies impose time limits such as three, six or nine months. Other policies pay the difference between normal living expenses and the cost of living elsewhere.