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M a n a g i n g yo u r flo o d i n s u r a n c e c l a i m Unfortunately, like thousands of Americans each year, you’ve experienced America’s most common natural disaster – a flood. Fortunately, you bought flood insurance for just such an eventuality. Here are the first steps you need to take to get your home – and life – back to normal. FEMA F-685S Catalog No. 09106-1 (08/08) FloodSmart.gov 1.[PHONE REDACTED] ---PAGE BREAK--- A flood can be devastating, but it’s crucial to begin the recovery process right away. • Call your flood insurance agent or company with your policy number and contact information. • An adjuster should be assigned to you within a few days. When he or she visits, you or someone you trust should be present. • Gather any photos, receipts and itemized lists you made prior to the flood. • Take photos of water and damaged property in the house. • Keep swatches of carpets or fabrics for your adjuster. Local officials may require disposal of damaged items. • Work with the adjuster to calculate the damage in order to prepare an accurate estimate. • Read your policy, as flood insurance coverage is limited to certain elements in a basement, such as a furnace, a hot water heater and items essential to the building’s structure. FI RST STE PS I N FI LI N G YO U R C L A I M And remember, your policy will not automatically be renewed. It’s your responsibility to renew your policy annually. For further information, call 1-[PHONE REDACTED]. Most claims are settled within 30 to 60 days of filing. Repairs can take some time, so it’s important to be attentive during the repair process. • For major repairs, get a minimum of three estimates. If there are variations in cost, question the contractors. • Make sure all estimates provide work details, give a fixed price and are signed. Never proceed with repairs on the basis of a verbal agreement. • Don’t let anyone take advantage of you. Natural disasters attract unqualified contractors looking to work cheaply for cash. • Ask for state licenses and references, including names and phone numbers. Take the time to call them. • Books, heirlooms and photos may be restored using tips available online at http://www.fema.gov/ hazard/flood/fl_before.shtm. M A N A G I N G TH E R E PA I R P R O C ES S R E B U I LD a n d r e n ew It’s not always easy, but the time you take to ensure proper repairs will be well worth it in the long run. Now more than ever, you will appreciate the decision you made to purchase flood insurance.