Handling a flood effectively requires both immediate response and preparedness, and knowing how your insurance covers flood damage is crucial to your financial recovery. Here’s a comprehensive guide:
During a Flood: What to Do
- Stay Informed
- Monitor alerts from local authorities via radio, weather apps, or emergency broadcasts.
- Pay attention to evacuation orders and flood warnings/watches.
- Evacuate Safely
- If ordered to evacuate, do so immediately. Don’t wait — floods escalate fast.
- Know your evacuation routes in advance.
- Never drive through flooded roads (“Turn Around, Don’t Drown”).
- Protect Yourself
- Move to higher ground or the highest level of your home if trapped.
- Avoid walking through floodwaters; just 6 inches can knock you off your feet, and water may be contaminated or electrically charged.
- Secure Property (if time allows)
- Move valuables to higher floors.
- Shut off gas, electricity, and water if instructed to and safe to do so.
After a Flood: What to Do
- Stay Out Until It’s Safe
- Wait for official word before returning.
- Beware of structural damage, mold, gas leaks, and contaminated water.
- Document the Damage
- Take photos/videos of all affected areas and items.
- Don’t discard damaged property until an insurance adjuster has seen it, unless absolutely necessary.
- Contact Your Insurance Provider
- Notify them immediately to start your claim.
- Follow their instructions for inspections and documentation.
- Clean Up Safely
- Wear gloves, boots, and a mask.
- Ventilate the area and dry out as much as possible to prevent mold.
Insurance Coverage for Floods
Homeowners Insurance:
DOES NOT typically cover flood damage from natural disasters like overflowing rivers or heavy rainfall.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or Private Flood Insurance:
- Separate policy required, often through FEMA (via NFIP) or private insurers.
- Covers:
- Structure (foundation, electrical, HVAC, appliances, etc.)
- Contents (furniture, clothing, electronics)
- Policy limits vary (e.g., $250,000 for structure, $100,000 for contents under NFIP).
Key Points:
- Must have purchased the policy 30 days prior to the flood (NFIP rule).
- Some private flood insurers offer more flexible terms and higher limits.
- Temporary housing may not be covered under NFIP (some private policies do).
How to Prepare in Advance
- Buy flood insurance (NFIP or private).
- Keep an up-to-date home inventory for claims.
- Install sump pumps, elevate electrical systems, and use flood-resistant materials.
- Have an emergency kit with water, food, meds, flashlight, and documents.