What Documents Do You Need for a Flood Claim?

Start by locating your flood insurance policy document. It holds your policy number, coverage limits, and the contact information for your insurer or agent. Keep this document in a waterproof, accessible place, like a high shelf or a digital cloud storage. Having it on hand speeds up your initial report and helps you understand your specific coverage from the very first call.

Visual evidence is critical for validating your claim. Take extensive photographs and videos of all flood damage from multiple angles before any cleanup begins. Capture water lines on walls, ruined furniture, and damaged appliances. This documentation creates a clear, time-stamped record for the insurance adjuster to review, supporting the descriptions in your inventory list and proof of loss form.

• Exterior photos showing floodwater levels and entry points.
• Interior shots of every affected room and item.
• Close-ups of serial numbers on major appliances.
• Video walkthroughs narrating the damage.
• Images of damaged structural elements like drywall or flooring.
• Pictures of any pre-existing damage for comparison.

Gather any receipts, invoices, or credit card statements for damaged items, recent home improvements, and emergency repairs. Proof of purchase helps establish value and ownership. Also, keep records of any temporary repairs you made to prevent further damage, like buying a tarp or a wet-dry vacuum. Save receipts for additional living expenses if you were displaced, as some policies may cover these costs.

• Original purchase receipts for major items.
• Contractor invoices for recent renovations.
• Receipts for materials used in emergency protection.
• Hotel and meal receipts if you cannot live at home.
• Appraisal documents for valuables like jewelry or art.
• Previous utility bills to establish pre-loss conditions.