Flood Damage from Ida? Your Host’s Policy Probably Won’t Cover

If it’s safe to do so, take photos or videos of the damage – but leave the roof climbing to the professionals, said Mr Hunter. You can also submit images of your items taken before the storm to document your losses.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency, which oversees the flood insurance program, recommends that you dispose of flood-damaged items that pose a health threat, such as mold growth, after photographing. Keep samples of items damaged by flooding, such as rugs and curtains, to show the adjuster.

Keep receipts for hotel and meal expenses, as well as initial repairs. While federal flood policies do not reimburse temporary living costs, homeowner policies usually cover these costs when they are the result of wind damage. In federally declared disaster areas, disaster relief can help pay for living expenses that flood insurance does not cover. You can search FEMAs disaster website To see if your region is eligible.

Fortunately, standard homeowner’s insurance policies typically cover damage from high winds — such as exploding roofs, tiles or siding, or blowing rains. If your property has been affected by both wind and flooding, you may be eligible for living expenses on your policy, Mr Hunter said.

Here are some questions and answers about flood insurance:

What if I am not satisfied with my flood claim?

If you think your payment is too low, you can appeal. You can ask the adjuster’s supervisor to reconsider your claim, or you can request the insurer for a new review. If you still disagree, you can file a written appeal with FEMA within 60 days of the insurer’s rejection letter.

In the event of serious damage, you may want to consider hiring a public insurance adjuster, a professional insurance adjuster who represents you instead of the insurer. In most states, public surveyors work on a contingency fee, meaning they are not paid upfront, but receive a share of the settlement – ​​usually 15 percent. (Louisiana does not allow contingency fees, so surveyors usually charge a flat or hourly rate.) Because the fee can be very high , Mr Hunter said the consumer federation did not immediately recommend hiring public surveyors.

However, Anita Taff, president of the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters, said insurers may try to delay or reject claims for payment in hopes that policyholders will give up and accept the first payment. Insurance policies can be complex, and the federal flood program has deadlines that must be met to protect your claim. So a tuner can help keep you on track. Typically, the initial consultation with a public adjuster is free, he said. If you want to consider hiring someone, you can search at: association’s website For member organizers who agree to the group’s code of conduct and education.