Understand the Flood Insurance Claim Process

BATON ROUGE, La.—If you had damage following Louisiana’s historic severe storms and floods, state and federal officials encourage you to monitor the insurance claims process after reporting your loss.
 
You have 120 days from the date of your loss to file a claim if you’re a National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholder in Louisiana. Here are some tips to guide you through the process to ensure you receive all eligible insurance funds for your recovery.

What to Do Before an Adjuster Visit

• Take pictures of the damage.

• Write down a list of your damaged contents.

• Immediately throw away flooded items because of health risks, but cut off and keep a 12-square-inch sample of building materials like carpets and drywall as proof of damage.

• Have documents related to damage ready. This may include contractor’s estimates and repair receipts.

• Also keep your policy number and insurance company information handy.

What Happens During an Adjuster Visit

• An adjuster will contact you within 24 to 48 hours to schedule an appointment.

• Ask to see the adjuster’s official identification when he or she visits.

• The adjuster will take measurements and photographs and document the damage. They may provide you with their contact information if additional visits are needed.

Understand the Flood Insurance Claim Process

• After your home is inspected, the adjuster will provide you with a flood certification number and a suggested Proof of Loss based on their assessment.

• Inspectors never ask for money, approve or disapprove claims or tell you whether your claim will be approved.

What Happens After an Adjuster Visit

• Review, sign and send the Proof of Loss form to your insurance company within 120 days of the date of damage.

• Submit a signed Proof of Loss form even if you think it doesn’t cover all your damage because you can always file supplemental claims.

• Contact your insurance company and file for additional payments if you disagree with the original Proof of Loss amount, discover more damage, or the repair costs exceed the estimated amount.

Have Questions? Call FEMA or Your Insurance Company

• Call 800-621-3362 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and select Option 2. If you use TTY, call 800-462-7585. Those who use 711 or Video Relay Service can call 800-621-3362. Call center staff are available to assist you with information regarding your policy, offer technical flood guidance to aid in recovery and answer your questions.

• Go online to fema.gov/louisiana-disaster-mitigation for information about repairing and rebuilding.