Know which kind of water it is
FloodSmart, the National Flood Insurance Program's site, says most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage; flood coverage is a separate policy. Sudden plumbing leaks and sewer or drain backups are often handled differently again. Read your policy or ask your agent; we can't tell you what's covered.
Photos and video
- Wide shots of each affected room before anything is moved.
- The source: the burst pipe, the failed appliance, the roof leak, the floor drain.
- The waterline on walls, and standing water depth if you can show it safely.
- Close-ups of damaged flooring, drywall, cabinets, and belongings, including model and serial labels.
A timeline
Write down when the water started, when you noticed it, when you stopped it, and who you called. Keep it with your photos. The Flood.co brief records the same timeline with a date and time, and you'll get a copy of what you sent.
An item list
List damaged belongings with rough age and value. Don't throw out damaged items before photographing them, and ask your insurer whether they need to see anything before disposal.
Receipts and readings
Keep receipts for emergency repairs, equipment rentals, and hotel stays. Ask any water damage company for moisture readings and photos of their work; insurers often ask for drying records.
Federal help after declared disasters
After a federally declared disaster, DisasterAssistance.gov is the official place to apply for federal assistance.