How to Handle a Flood Insurance Claim
According to floodsmart.gov, within the past five years, all 50 states have experienced floods. That’s a disturbing thought considering most people live in a flood zone. Fortunately, Allied Restoration Company provides water damage restoration services, as well as document recovery services, throughout Seattle. If you’re in need of a Seattle water damage restoration company, call us today at 425-458-5756.
If you’ve recently experienced a flood and are unsure of what your next step should be, here are five tips to help you out:
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Contact Your Insurance Company
Once you get on the phone with your insurance company, inform them of your loss and tell them you are going to be filing a claim. Give them your contact information and let them know where they can reach you, especially if you are unable to stay in your home.
Your insurance agent should work swiftly to help you get back on your feet. First, your claim will be assigned to an adjuster, and then your adjuster will explain the following steps needed to take to file the claim. The adjuster will also provide any necessary forms.
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Itemize Your Possessions
Make a detailed list of the possessions within your business or home. Take an inventory of each room, including chairs, beds, sofas, dressers, etc. briefly describe the items and include model numbers, serial numbers and the date the item was purchased. Include everything and do not forget items like pictures and the contents of cupboards, drawers, etc.
Another option is to take photos of everything inside your business or home.
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Clean up as Soon as Possible
While cleaning up after a flood is difficult, it is imperative to begin cleaning once the floodwaters recede. When you can safely enter your home, search each room and separate what is damaged from what is undamaged. Separate wet items from dry items, and then make a detailed list of all of the damaged or lost property.
It is also important not to get rid of any damaged property—this is where your adjuster comes in.
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Work With Your Adjuster
Insurance companies hire adjusters to help people who are in similar situations to yours. Work with your adjuster, after all his or her job is to assist you and review your claim. The adjuster will review your itemized list of lost or damaged property, and work with you to gauge the value of the items on the list.
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Take Charge
Using this information will help you manage your claim so that you will receive the insurance benefits due to you.
If you need more information about flood insurance claims or just need advice, Allied Restoration Company can help. Call us at 425-458-5756 today.