There has been a lot of rain fall from late April to late May 2021.
After the pipe freeze, hail events, and high-winds, the big rain fall is now revealing property damage that has gone unnoticed.
It's not easy recovering from a flood event. Not being able to replace family treasures, your furniture is destroyed, potentially along with your large portions of your home.
It's an emotional roller coaster. But you know the only thing you can do is move forward, and begin the steps needed to restore your home.
Here are some tips for reporting a claim:
While flood coverage is typically not provided under most homeowners and renters policies, flood insurance may be available to you through the federally regulated program known as the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). If you need assistance to locate your flood insurance carrier, you can call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).
A claims adjuster should contact you within a day or two after report of the claim to your insurance company.
When reporting a claim, have the following information available:
Your name and address
Policy number
Date the loss happened
Description of events that led to loss
Active phone number
Confirm what's covered under your NFIP policy (some policyholders may only have building or personal property items coverage, not both)
Inspection tips:
The next step, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), is to prepare for your inspection. After deeming the structure safe for entry, take as many photos or videos of the flood-damaged property on the outside and inside. Take pictures of high-cost items like washers and dryers, hot water heaters, televisions and kitchen appliances. It's also a good idea to separate the damaged from undamaged items prior to the inspection.
When the adjuster from the insurance company arrives, they will inspect your property including taking measurements and photos and give you an overview of the NFIP flood claims process (this is what they should be doing. Not all follow this protocol).
Remember that some flood insurance claims are more complex than others. Some may be opened and closed quickly, while others may take weeks or even months to resolve.
If your vehicle was also damaged in a flood event, it's best to call your auto insurance provider to see if you're covered for the loss.
***Hiring a public adjuster helps to move the claims process along while having a licensed professional fight for every dollar you are owed.
Contact Smart Claims Public Adjusting in Houston, Texas.