If flooding has caused damage to large parts of the country, you may have to wait for a loss adjuster to visit you. Immediate emergency pumping and repair work to protect the property from further damage can be undertaken without insurer approval, but remember to get receipts.
Ask the insurance company
- How long it will be before the loss adjuster visits.
- If you are to clean your property or if they will get a company to do it for you.
- If they will help pay for repairs that will reduce potential flood damage and therefore reduce the costs if it happens again.
Always make your own record of flood damage
- Use a permanent ink pen to mark on the wall the maximum height of the flood water. Do this in every room affected by flooding.
- Photograph or video record your damaged property. List the damage to your property and belongings.
- If your insurance policy covers you for loss of perishable goods, make a list of all the foods you throw away. Include any food touched by flood water and anything in your fridge or freezer ruined by loss of power.
Things to help with your insurance claim
- Confirm the insurance company will pay for any service or equipment you need.
- Make a note of all telephone calls. Record the date, name and what was agreed.
- Keep copies of all letters, emails and faxes you send and receive.
- Keep receipts.
- Don't throw anything away until told (except ruined food).
Depending on your policy, the insurance company may only offer to clean and repair something, not replace it.
If you do not have insurance, your local council should be able to provide information on hardship grants or charities that may be able to help you.
This leaflet is also available in three audio guides:
Please note these files are very large and will take time to download.
