No. Standard homeowners and commercial property insurance policies typically exclude flood damage. You need a separate flood insurance policy (NFIP or private).

Start by documenting all damage with photos and videos. Contact your insurer or public adjuster and begin mitigation efforts to prevent further loss.representation.

Why Acting Fast Matters

Understanding your contractual obligations as a policyholder and the responsibilities your insurance provider owes you is crucial to avoiding unnecessary liability and risk. The longer damage remains unmitigated, the greater the risk of mold, moisture intrusion, structural weakening, and increased liability.

While you can’t file a flood claim without insurance, you may qualify for FEMA grants, SBA loans, or local aid.

A Proof of Loss is a sworn statement that details the amount of your claimed damages. For NFIP claims, it must be submitted within 60 days unless extended.

You should notify your insurer immediately, but NFIP policies generally require claims and Proof of Loss submission within 60 days of the flood event.

Public adjusters represent you (not the insurance company) and help with damage documentation, claim filing, settlement negotiation, and maximizing payout..

Yes. You can dispute the settlement or denial through appeal, reinspection, appraisal, or by hiring a public adjuster to reopen and strengthen your claim.

Covered damages often include foundation, walls, flooring, HVAC, water heaters, and permanently installed appliances—but not landscaping or external decks.

NFIP does not cover business interruption. However, some private policies or special endorsements might. A public adjuster can help review your coverage.

Yes and No. Knowing what to repair immediately versus what to wait on can protect your insurance claim and avoid denied or reduced coverage. Here's a detailed breakdown for policyholders dealing with flood or property damage:

You should begin emergency mitigation (like water removal) immediately after taking photos and video of all affected areas holding moisture. Save all receipts and document everything thoroughly for your claim file.

🔹 Document everything before and during removal: Take photos and videos of all damage, removed materials, and emergency work performed. Keep all receipts.

These actions are encouraged to prevent further damage and protect safety:

• Water removal / pumping out standing water

• Removing soaked carpet, drywall, and insulation

• Boarding up broken windows or doors

• Tarping roof leaks

• Shutting off electricity or gas if unsafe

• Drying out property with fans, dehumidifiers, and air movers

• Removing mold-prone materials (if safe and documented)

• Securing the structure (temporary shoring or fencing)

Interior Property Materials Requiring Immediate Mitigation After a Flood

1. Drywall / Sheetrock

Highly absorbent and prone to mold within 24–48 hours

Must be removed at least 12–24 inches above the water line (a practice known as a "flood cut")

2. Carpet and Padding

Traps contaminated water and bacteria

Should be removed immediately—especially in Category 2 or 3 water (gray/black water)

3. Insulation (Behind Walls)

Fiberglass, cellulose, and foam insulation retain moisture

Must be removed once drywall is opened to prevent mold and rot

4. Baseboards and Trim

Often made of MDF or wood, they absorb water quickly and should be detached for drying or replacement

5. Flooring (Wood, Laminate, Engineered)

Buckles and warps easily after exposure to standing water

Must often be removed to allow subfloor drying

6. Subflooring

Plywood and OSB subfloors can delaminate and retain moisture

Needs thorough inspection and drying using professional equipment

7. Cabinetry and Vanities

If water-saturated from below, toe-kicks and particle board bases may swell and fail

Professional evaluation recommended before attempting to salvage

8. HVAC Ducting and Systems (If Flooded)

Water intrusion in ducts can spread mold and contaminants

Requires disinfection and sometimes full duct replacement

9. Electrical Outlets and Wiring (Below Flood Line)

Must be inspected by a licensed electrician

May need rewiring or breaker replacements if submerged

You should avoid full repairs or replacements of the following items until after the adjuster inspects and documents the damage:

🛑 Do NOT Repair or Replace Yet:

Drywall and Interior Wall Rebuilds
– Avoid reinstalling drywall, insulation, or trim.

Flooring (Wood, Laminate, Tile)
– Don’t refloor or refinish until damages are inspected.

Cabinetry and Built-Ins
– Leave damaged cabinets in place if safe.

Roof Replacement
– Tarp only; wait on permanent roof repairs until adjuster approval.

Electrical and Plumbing Repairs (non-emergency)
– Hold off on full rewiring, fixture replacement, or re-plumbing until approved.

HVAC System Replacement
– Don’t install a new furnace or A/C system without adjuster sign-off.

Appliance Replacement
– If flood-damaged, document them in place and leave for inspection.

Structural Framing or Demolition
– Do not remove walls, beams, or ceilings unless they pose an immediate safety hazard.

📸 Golden Rule: Document Before You Act

Photograph everything, including serial/model numbers

Save samples of flooring, drywall, or carpet

Make a contents inventory with estimated values

Mold begins to grow in 24–72 hours

Insurance policies often require reasonable mitigation efforts

Delaying action may result in coverage denials or reduced payouts