Flooding can strike with very little warning, and at times it can even hit low-risk areas. It's can cause some of the most pervasive home damage possible.
If you're victimized by a flood, you'll likely need to file a flood insurance claim to recoup your losses. This is often a multi-step process. How can you follow the process in the most timely and effective way?
You'll need to dedicate time to filing a flood claim. Yet, with the help of your policy and your Insurance Discounters of Texas agent, you'll have a straightforward process to follow.
Make Sure You Have Coverage
You might think that if you have home insurance, you are in the clear when it comes to flood coverage. But, think again. Most homeowners policies do not cover damage from weather-related floods. This can include flash floods, hurricanes, storm surge or river overflows. To get coverage for flooding, you'll likely need a targeted flood insurance policy.
The National Flood Insurance Program® (NFIP) makes it possible for many home insurers to offer this coverage. You usually won' have to look further than your insurance agent to get coverage. Once you have it, you'll be able to repair your property and replace damaged belongings. It's critical coverage, therefore, for your personal solvency.
Filing A Claim
Following a flood, don't hesitate to contact your insurer. They'll walk you through the process of filing a claim. You'll need to follow the steps your insurer provides to the letter.
- Make sure all your policy information is current. You should do this when the weather is good, not after a flood is over. You don't want bad information to get in the way of getting a payout.
- Document the damage. Take photos of damaged items and structural damage. If you have standing water, photograph it as well. Collect receipts or other evidence to document the value of lost items. Only clean up after documenting the initial damage.
- Work with your insurer to document the loss. Based on the stipulations of your policy, you'll have to provide certain information to the insurer. The evidence you gathered can go towards this goal. Your insurer will help you compile a Proof of Loss file. This document will help guarantee that you receive payment for your losses.
After you submit the claim, your insurer will determine the exact sum you can receive. This will depend on the limits of your policy, alongside the value of your actual losses. It will usually take a few weeks or months to get the funding, depending on the weight of the claim. Stay in touch with your Insurance Discounters of Texas agent during this time. They can be your advocate.
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