Storm surges—powerful walls of water pushed ashore by hurricanes or strong coastal storms—can cause catastrophic flooding and destruction to homes, property, and belongings. Navigating the insurance process for storm surge damage requires understanding your policies and taking swift, organized steps. This guide walks you through the step-by-step process for managing your insurance claim after storm surge damage.
Step 1: Ensure Safety Before Returning Home
Before assessing any damage, prioritize safety for you and your family:
Wait for Clearance: Do not return to your property until local authorities confirm it is safe.
Be Aware of Hazards:
Avoid downed power lines and standing water that may hide debris or electrical risks.
Be cautious of weakened structures, gas leaks, and mold exposure.
Wear Protective Gear: Use sturdy boots, gloves, and masks when entering the home to minimize health risks.
Tip: If floodwaters remain inside the home, contact professionals to pump water out safely to avoid structural collapse.
Step 2: Document the Damage Thoroughly
Before starting any cleanup, document all storm surge damage for your insurance claim:
Take Photos and Videos: Capture clear, detailed images of:
Water levels inside and outside your home.
Damaged walls, floors, ceilings, appliances, and furniture.
Exterior damage, including siding, foundations, and detached structures like garages or sheds.
Create an Inventory of Damaged Items: Include descriptions, purchase dates, and estimated values for personal belongings.
Measure the Water Line: Take photos of water marks on walls or furniture to show how high floodwaters reached.
Tip: Do not discard damaged items until the insurance adjuster has inspected them unless explicitly told otherwise.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Providers
Storm surge damage typically requires coordination between two types of insurance:
Flood Insurance Policy: Standard homeowners policies do not cover flooding caused by storm surge. You’ll need a flood insurance policy through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer.
Homeowners Insurance Policy: May cover wind damage or other storm-related issues, like roof damage that allows water to enter.
What to Do:
Call your flood insurance provider immediately to file a claim. Provide:
Your policy number.
A description of the damage.
Contact your homeowners insurer for non-flood-related damages (e.g., roof, siding, or wind damage).
Tip: File your claims as soon as possible, as insurance companies often experience high claim volumes after a major storm.
Step 4: Mitigate Further Damage
You are responsible for preventing additional damage to your home, which is a requirement of most insurance policies:
Remove Standing Water: If safe, use pumps, mops, or wet/dry vacuums to remove water.
Dry Out the Home: Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to circulate air and reduce mold risk.
Prevent Additional Losses: Board up broken windows, tarp damaged roofs, and remove debris.
Tip: Keep all receipts for temporary repairs, cleanup supplies, or professional mitigation services—these expenses may be reimbursable.
Step 5: Work with the Insurance Adjuster
Your insurance provider(s) will assign an adjuster to assess the damage. Here’s how to prepare:
Be Present During the Inspection: Walk the adjuster through all areas of damage and provide evidence (photos, videos, and your inventory list).
Share Receipts and Documentation: Provide receipts for major purchases, repairs, or flood-proofing improvements.
Request a Written Report: Ask the adjuster to outline their findings and valuation in writing.
What the Adjuster Will Do:
Verify the cause and extent of the damage.
Assess structural damage, water intrusion, and ruined personal property.
Calculate repair and replacement costs based on your policy coverage.
Tip: If you disagree with the adjuster’s findings, you can request a second opinion or hire a public adjuster to advocate for a fair settlement.
Step 6: Review Your Policy Coverage
Understanding your policy will help you confirm what’s covered:
Flood Insurance (NFIP or Private Policy):
Covers damage caused by rising water from storm surges or flooding.
Includes structural repairs (walls, floors, and foundations) and major systems like plumbing and electrical.
Covers certain personal property like appliances, furniture, and essential belongings.
Homeowners Insurance:
Covers wind-driven rain or storm-related damage (e.g., wind blowing a tree onto your roof).
Does not cover flooding or water damage caused by storm surge.
Exclusions to Look For:
Mold growth due to delayed cleanup.
Detached items like fences or pools may have limited coverage.
Tip: Review the limits of your flood insurance policy (e.g., NFIP caps at $250,000 for buildings and $100,000 for contents).
Step 7: Obtain Estimates for Repairs
Contact licensed professionals to get repair estimates for structural and property damage:
General Contractors: For drywall replacement, flooring, and structural repairs.
Water Restoration Specialists: To mitigate mold, dry out water-damaged areas, and clean up debris.
HVAC and Electrical Professionals: To inspect and repair damaged systems.
Tip: Share repair estimates with your adjuster to align expectations and ensure proper reimbursement.
Step 8: Finalize the Settlement
Once the adjuster completes their assessment, your insurer(s) will provide a settlement offer:
Review the Offer Carefully: Ensure all damages are included, including structural repairs and personal property replacements.
Compare with Contractor Estimates: If the settlement seems too low, provide additional documentation to justify higher repair costs.
Negotiate If Needed: If disputes arise, escalate your concerns with the insurance company or consult a public adjuster.
Tip: Settlement funds for repairs may be issued in installments as work progresses—keep detailed records of all expenses.
Step 9: Begin Repairs and Replacements
Once your settlement is approved, you can begin the recovery process:
Hire approved contractors to repair structural damage.
Replace personal belongings using the funds from your flood or homeowners insurance payout.
Track all costs, receipts, and warranties for repairs and replacements.
Tip: Use reputable, licensed contractors to avoid “storm chasers” offering low-quality or fraudulent services.
Step 10: Prevent Future Storm Surge Damage
Take proactive measures to minimize future storm surge and flood risks:
Elevate Critical Systems: Move HVAC units, electrical panels, and water heaters above potential flood levels.
Install Flood Barriers: Use flood vents, sandbags, or other protective systems.
Raise Your Home: In flood-prone areas, elevating your home can reduce damage and lower insurance costs.
Invest in Floodproofing: Seal basements, install sump pumps, and waterproof walls.
Tip: Consult your insurer to see if improvements qualify you for flood insurance discounts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does homeowners insurance cover storm surge damage?
No, standard homeowners insurance does not cover storm surge or flooding. You’ll need a separate flood insurance policy.
2. How do I know if my damage is from flooding or wind-driven rain?
Flooding: Rising water from storm surge or heavy rain. Covered by flood insurance.
Wind-Driven Rain: Rain that enters through openings caused by wind damage. May be covered under homeowners insurance.
3. How long does it take to process a storm surge claim?
The process can take several weeks to months, depending on the extent of damage and the volume of claims filed after a major storm.
4. What if I don’t have flood insurance?
If you don’t have flood insurance, you may qualify for FEMA disaster assistance, though it is often limited.
5. Can I get both flood and homeowners insurance payouts?
Yes, if your home suffered both flood damage (covered by flood insurance) and wind-driven rain or other storm-related damage (covered by homeowners insurance).
Final Thoughts
Recovering from storm surge damage requires swift action, clear documentation, and coordination with your insurance providers. By following these steps—documenting losses, mitigating further damage, and working closely with adjusters—you’ll be on your way to repairing and rebuilding your home.
If you need support navigating the claims process or understanding your coverage, Loti is here to help. Contact us today for expert guidance and resources to get your home and life back on track!