Heavy rain, storm surges, hurricanes, and other severe weather events can lead to devastating floods that cause extensive damage. After a flood hits your home or business, you’ll want to assess and repair the damages as soon as possible. Record the date and time the storm hit. This can help if your area was declared a state of emergency.
Although flood insurance is there to help you recover and rebuild your home or business, you need to know how to make a claim so that you can get all of the coverage you can as soon as possible.
Claim Process
You can start the claims process immediately after a flood. However, before you call us at (914) 693-3500, make sure you have the following information:
- A copy of the policy declarations page that details your flood insurance coverage if you have it
- The best ways to contact you, since normal phone lines and internet access may be disrupted
- The name of any applicable mortgage company
- When the company that issued your flood policy gets notice of your loss, you may be able to qualify for an advance payment before the inspection. However, these payments are at the discretion of the individual company and shouldn’t be relied on when you’re planning your recovery process.
After the claims process has begun and local officials have determined that it’s safe, you should return to your property to prepare for an inspection to assess the damage.
Here are some steps to take before an inspection:
- Ensure that the gas, electricity, and other utilities have been shut off to the affected area.
- Cover any part of your property that may be exposed to the elements to prevent further damage.
- Take pictures and videos of ALL PROPERTY DAMAGE as soon as it’s safe to do so since receding waters could affect the situation.
- Pictures and videos should focus on structural damage to your home or business and standing floodwater levels both inside and outside. You should also document damage to appliances, furniture, and other items before moving anything.
- Record the serial numbers of any appliances, electronics, and other property that you find is damaged.
Look for undamaged samples of flooring, wallpaper, drapes, and other materials so a claims adjuster can assess their value. - Arrange for any temporary repairs that will protect your property from further damage. However, you shouldn’t make agreements with a cleaner or contractor without consulting SAVA Insurance Group or your insurer first.
- Keep detailed records of any expenses you incur after a flood.
- Be sure not to dispose of anything until a claims adjuster gives you the OK.
When working with contractors after a flood, it’s important to keep copies of all receipts, bank statements, invoices, and other documents that show how you paid for repairs. These items may be used as permanent records in case your business floods in the future, and they could affect how much you’re compensated.
Getting your insurance coverage after a flood is key, but you have other resources at your disposal. FEMA’s website has a number of resources and programs you can use to recover.
Need Help Filing A Homeowner’s Insurance Claim? Give MVR Agency a call (914) 693-3500 or visit or Personal Lines Claim Page.