Your adjuster will provide you with a repair estimate that includes the flood damage observed at the time of the initial inspection based on current repair costs in your area. Carefully review your estimate for accuracy and completeness. Additionally, you will be asked to sign a proof of loss form. Signing a proof of loss, even if you have questions about the amount, will not prevent you from requesting additional payment if necessary; however, it will allow your insurer to issue payment for known agreed flood damage. If you disagree with the estimate, identify a missed or misidentified item, or find additional damage later, contact your insurance company or adjuster to request an additional payment. You may be required to provide documentation to support your request. Keep in mind that your flood policy owes for like kind and quality materials and will not pay for increased costs due to upgrades or improvements.
Your flood insurance company is committed to paying the full amount to which you are entitled under your flood insurance policy. Be sure to ask your insurer or adjuster about your policy, what it covers, and any important deadlines you need to meet (for example, the SFIP requires a proof of loss within 60 days of the flood loss). Keep copies of all documents that are relevant to your flood claim, including all materials submitted to your insurance company and adjuster. Saving receipts, bank statements, and contractor’s invoices will facilitate timely claim payment for future flood events because you will be required to document that previous flood damage was repaired.
As you recover, there are several different organizations and agencies that may send representatives to your home to help with your restoration. No matter who’s knocking at your door, always ask for identification and the purpose of the visit. If you are unsure of or uncomfortable with anyone you encounter who claims to be an emergency management official or if you receive a suspicious call, please contact local law enforcement and the Disaster Fraud Hotline at (866) 720-5721. Do not give out your personal information. Learn more about the representatives who may visit by reviewing Who’s Knocking at Your Door.