Flood Insurance Claim: 5 Things To Do When The Flood Waters Recede
Many homes in Southeast Louisiana flooded. For some homeowners, it is the second major flood in just a few months. While helping clients with flood insurance claims from the March 2016 flood, we found that proper documentation and organization of the claim made a huge difference in the outcome. In preparing your flood insurance claim, here are things you should to do as soon as the flood water recedes from your home:
1. Contact your insurance agent or company and report your claim. Have your insurance policy number ready. You must give prompt notice of your loss.
2. Document, document, document! Take date-stamped pictures of everything. Keep receipts of all flood related expenses.
3. Separate damaged from undamaged property. Do all you can to protect undamaged property, including your home and its contents.
4. Make a detailed list of damaged contents (item, brand name, model number, cost, etc.). This will be used with the Proof of Loss affidavit submitted for your claim.
5. Prepare yourself for the claim process. Finalization and payment of your claim does not happen immediately. It is more akin to a marathon rather than a sprint.
Seale & Ross works with individuals and business clients on insurance-related matters, including flood insurance claims. To connect with the firm please email flood@sealeross.com or call 985.542.8500.