Damage guide
Flood damage
Flooding generally refers to surface water from outside — overflowing rivers, storm surge or heavy rainfall runoff. Standard homeowners policies commonly exclude flood, which is often covered separately (for example through the National Flood Insurance Program or private flood policies). Check what policies you actually hold.
Immediate safety considerations
- • Do not walk or drive through floodwater. Moving water can be dangerous even when shallow.
- • Follow instructions from local emergency officials before returning home.
- • Floodwater may contain sewage, chemicals or debris. Wear protective gear.
- • Do not use electrical systems that have been submerged until inspected.
If anyone is in danger, call 911.
How to document the damage
- Only document damage once it is safe to be in the area.
- Take wide photos of each room, then close-ups of specific damage.
- Record a short video walkthrough narrating what you see.
- Write down the date and time you discovered the damage.
- Keep damaged items until your insurer says you can discard them, when it is safe and sanitary to do so.
- Save receipts for emergency supplies, temporary repairs and lodging.
When to contact your insurer
If you have flood insurance, contact the insurer or agent listed on your flood policy. If you are unsure whether you have flood coverage, your agent or insurer can tell you which policies are in force.
We can't tell you whether a loss is covered — only your policy and insurer can.
Professionals who may help
Common terms
- NFIP
- The National Flood Insurance Program, administered by FEMA.
- Proof of loss
- A sworn statement some insurers require, describing the loss amount claimed, often within a deadline.
Questions to ask potential contractors
- • Are you licensed for this work in my state or city? Can I see the license number?
- • Do you carry general liability and workers' compensation insurance? Can you provide certificates?
- • Will you provide a written, itemized estimate before starting?
- • Who will be doing the work — your employees or subcontractors?
- • What are your payment terms? (Be cautious of large upfront payments.)
- • Will you obtain any required permits?
- • Can you provide references from recent, similar jobs?
- • What will you need from me to support documentation for my insurer?