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How Do I File a Flood Insurance Claim After a Storm?

Last updated October 31, 2026

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The short answer

Document the Damage First

Before you touch anything, take detailed photos and videos of every room affected by the flood. Capture the water line on walls, soaked furniture, and any standing water. This visual record helps your insurance company understand the scope of the loss.

Make a written list of every damaged item, including furniture, appliances, clothing, and personal belongings. Note each item's approximate age, brand, and original cost if you remember it. For structural damage, photograph the affected drywall, flooring, and baseboards from multiple angles.

  • Take photos before moving anything
  • Record water levels on walls
  • List each damaged item with age and value
  • Keep a sample of wet carpet or padding
  • Save receipts for any emergency purchases
  • Note the date and time of the flood

Contact Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report the flood. Have your policy number ready and be prepared to describe the damage in detail. Ask what documentation they need from you and how they want to receive it, whether by app, email, or fax.

Your insurer will assign a claims adjuster to review your case. The adjuster may want to inspect the property before you start cleanup. If you must remove water or debris for safety, take photos first and keep a log of what you did and when. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Prevent Further Damage

After documenting everything, take reasonable steps to prevent more damage. Move valuable items to higher ground, prop up wet furniture on blocks, and remove standing water if you can do so safely. Turn off electricity in affected areas if it is safe to access the breaker box.

Do not throw away damaged items until your adjuster has seen them or given you permission. If you must discard things for health reasons, photograph them first and keep a sample when possible. Your goal is to protect the property while preserving evidence for the claim.

Work with the Adjuster

When the adjuster visits, walk through the property together and point out all damage. Show them your photo and video documentation and the list you created. Answer their questions honestly and provide any receipts or proof of ownership you have.

The adjuster will assess the damage and prepare a report for your insurance company. You may receive a settlement offer based on that report. Review it carefully and ask questions if anything seems missing or unclear. You can provide additional documentation if you think something was overlooked.

Start the Cleanup Process

Once you have documented everything and spoken with your adjuster, you can begin the cleanup. Remove water-damaged materials like drywall, insulation, and carpet that cannot be saved. Dry out the remaining structure as thoroughly as possible to prevent mold growth.

For extensive flood damage, local water damage pros can handle the heavy work, including water extraction, drying, and sanitizing. They can also help with structural repairs like drywall replacement and flooring removal. If you live in Fresno, you can search for local services that fit your needs.

Keep records of all cleanup and repair costs, including receipts for materials and any professional services. These expenses may be part of your claim. Stay organized and communicate regularly with your insurance company throughout the process.

  • Remove wet drywall and insulation
  • Dry out the space within 48 hours
  • Disinfect surfaces to prevent mold
  • Keep all receipts for repairs
  • Track your time and expenses
  • Call local pros for large jobs

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Call (559) 272-9793 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

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Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to file a flood insurance claim?

Most policies require you to report damage within a specific timeframe, often 30 to 60 days. Check your policy documents for the exact deadline. Report the claim as soon as possible to avoid missing any cutoff dates and to start the process.

What if I don't have flood insurance?

If you do not have flood insurance, you may still be able to get disaster assistance from federal or state programs. Contact your local emergency management office for information. You can also ask your insurance company if any coverage applies to storm-related water damage.

Can I clean up before the adjuster visits?

You can take steps to prevent further damage, like removing standing water, but do not discard damaged items until the adjuster has seen them. Photograph everything first and keep samples of materials like carpet or drywall. If you must remove items for safety, document them thoroughly.

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