Flood Damage Claims

Making a Flood Damage Insurance Claim

Immediate Steps

• Contact your insurer as soon as possible — most have 24/7 emergency helplines
• Document everything: Take photos and videos of all damage before cleaning
• Keep damaged items until the loss adjuster has seen them
• Keep receipts for all emergency spending
• Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage

The Claims Process

• Initial notification: Report the claim by phone or online
• Loss adjuster visit: Usually within 48 hours
• Scope of works: The adjuster agrees what repairs are needed
• Contractor appointment: Insurer appoints approved contractors
• Drying out: Professional drying before restoration
• Restoration: Repairs, redecoration, and replacement
• Settlement: Final payment for contents and cash settlements

Your Rights

• You can appoint your own loss assessor to represent your interests
• You can reject the insurer's appointed contractors with good reason
• You are entitled to like-for-like replacement, not betterment
• Alternative accommodation costs should be covered if your home is uninhabitable

Common Pitfalls

• Not documenting damage thoroughly enough
• Throwing away damaged items before the loss adjuster visits
• Accepting the first settlement offer without checking
• Not claiming for all affected items