If you’ve just experienced flooding in your home, you may feel out of your depth. Fortunately, if you take the right steps early on in the flood insurance claim process, you can make things easier for yourself, protect your claim, and cut through the red tape that often leaves homeowners frustrated and shortchanged.
This helpful guide will answer the question ”How do I file a flood insurance claim in Florida?” The knowledgeable team at Kennon Law Group will walk you through what to do, when to do it, and how to stay in control of your Florida flood damage claim from start to finish.
Preparing to File a Florida Flood Claim
The real work starts long before the flood hits. Before you ask, “How do I file a flood insurance claim?” it’s important to understand a few key points.
First and foremost, you should know what your policy actually covers — your home, surrounding property, belongings, etc. Some policies exclude basements, while others cap certain items, which is one reason you shouldn’t wait until after a storm to read the fine print.
After a flood occurs, your top priority should be safety. Avoid entering your home unless local authorities say it’s safe to do so. Floodwater can carry sewage, chemicals, or dangerous debris and even hide downed power lines. One wrong step could land you in the hospital, or worse.
Once you know it’s safe, gather your policy number, your insurance company’s contact info, and a reliable way for an adjuster to reach you.
Scan or photograph your policy, your mortgage statement (if you have one), and any receipts you have for high‑value items. Save every email and note every phone call, including the date, time, who you spoke with, and what they said.
Document All Flood Damage Thoroughly
A clear record of damage can mean the difference between a small check and one that covers your full losses.
Walk through each room and photograph water lines on walls, warped floors, ruined furniture, ruined belongings — everything. Write down a description of each item, when you bought it, and how much you paid for it (or what it’s worth today).
Hold on to receipts or bank statements whenever possible. Keep damaged items separate, but don’t throw away anything until the adjuster has had a look.
A big part of filing a flood insurance claim in Florida (and getting the most out of it) is having every document ready when you need it, because you never know when you might need to act suddenly.
Contact Your Flood Insurance Provider
Most flood insurance plans in Florida let policyholders file up to 60 days after the event. However, calling right away shows that you’re serious about avoiding more harm. Make it a point to keep the following information on hand:
- Your policy number
- Your address
- A quick summary of the damage
Ask for a claim number, your adjuster’s name, and when they plan to visit. Then, ask the adjuster, “How do I file a flood insurance claim?” to make sure you have all your bases covered.
If your house is mortgaged, notify the lender. This is usually a requirement, and they might need to endorse any payout you receive.
Meet With the Flood Insurance Adjuster in Florida
After completing the steps outlined previously, your insurance company will contact you to schedule a property inspection. This meeting matters because it’s your chance to make your case and walk an adjuster through the damage you’ve already documented.
Lead the adjuster through your home, pointing out every instance of damage. Share your photos and your inventory list. Ask how long their repair estimate will take and which policy limits apply. Make sure to take your own notes — remember, the insurance adjuster works for the company that employs them, not you.
Submit a Proof-of-Loss Form
One of the most important steps in figuring out how to make a flood insurance claim is completing the proof-of-loss form, which spells out what you’re claiming: each damaged item, its replacement‑cost value, and its current cash value, along with photos and repair bids.
Your adjuster can help you fill out this form, but you’re responsible for ensuring that it’s accurate. Even if the adjuster’s estimate seems low, it’s imperative to file the proof-of-loss form on time. A late filing could cost you your claim.
Once you’ve submitted the form, your insurer or insurance agent will take steps to process your flood claim and issue payment if approved. You can expect delays during widespread disasters, so make sure to stay in contact and ask for updates if things seem like they’re taking longer than they should.
Appeal or Dispute a Denied or Underpaid Flood Damage Claim
If your flood insurance company denies your claim or offers too little, you can appeal to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The agency gives National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders 60 days to appeal flood insurance claim denials. Make sure to include the following with your appeal:
- The denial letter
- Your policy number
- Proof of damage (photos, contractor bids, drying logs, etc.)
- A clear explanation of what you still need
Once you sue or ask for an appraisal, the appeal route available through FEMA closes.
How Kennon Law Group Can Help With Your Flood Claim
Kennon Law Group has guided countless Florida homeowners through the claims process in the aftermath of storms. We can review your flood insurance coverage, help you gather supporting evidence, and push for full payment. We can also work with independent public adjusters when additional perspective matters.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your claim and help you rebuild with confidence.
