Problem Pages
By Mike — Licensed GC & Public Adjuster — 9 min read
Flood claims are among the most complicated and contentious in all of property insurance. The rules are different, the coverage is different, and the mistakes are devastatingly expensive. After handling hundreds of flood claims, here are the eight mistakes I see most often — and exactly how to avoid them.
NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program) policies require you to file a Proof of Loss within 60 days of the flood. Miss this deadline and you may lose your right to the claim entirely. Private flood policies have their own deadlines — check yours immediately.
I understand the urge to start cleaning right away. Do not. Every item you throw away or move before documenting is money gone. Walk through and video every single room, every item, every inch of damage before you touch anything.
Standard homeowner's insurance does NOT cover flooding. Flood damage requires a separate flood insurance policy — typically through NFIP or a private carrier. Many homeowners discover this after the fact. Know what you have before you need it.
If you have both homeowner's and flood insurance, the source of water matters enormously. Water that entered through the roof during a storm is wind-driven rain — a homeowner's claim. Water that rose from the ground is flooding — a flood claim. They are handled very differently.
Flood adjusters are overwhelmed after major events. They may rush inspections and miss items. You have the right to a thorough inspection. Do not sign a settlement until you have your own contractor's assessment.
Flood policies often cover personal property separately from building coverage. Document every damaged item with photos, estimated age, and replacement cost. Appliances, furniture, electronics, clothing — every item counts.
Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) coverage pays for bringing your home up to current flood codes — including elevation. This is often available up to $30,000 and most policyholders never know to ask for it.
Assignment of Benefits (AOB) agreements with contractors can strip your rights as a policyholder. Never sign an AOB without understanding exactly what you are agreeing to.
Can You Reopen a Flood Claim? In some cases, yes. If you discover additional damage after settlement, or if new information surfaces that was not included in the original claim, you may be able to reopen. This is time-sensitive and policy-specific. Contact your insurer immediately if you believe you have grounds to reopen.
Call your insurer immediately to report the claim and get your claim number.
Document everything with video before touching anything.
Separate your building damage from your contents damage for documentation purposes.
Keep all damaged items until the adjuster has inspected them.
Get a licensed contractor's written assessment before signing any settlement.
Ask specifically about ICC coverage and contents coverage.
Everything you just read is built into Claim Advisor Pro. Track photos, estimates, receipts, and policy information — organized and ready when your adjuster arrives. Built by a licensed GC and public adjuster with 3,000+ claims settled.