After several days of rain, the weather has improved significantly. However, many people were affected
A strong storm hit several areas of New York on September 29th, causing severe flooding which, according to local authorities, was historic, since it had not rained so heavily in the last 70 years.
In spite of the aftermath of the floods, fortunately only material losses were recorded, no human losses, which gives a respite from this emergency that has caused great repercussions among some of the inhabitants of New York.
Unfortunately, the water caused not only flight delays, suspensions in some public transportation services, as well as flooded streets and severe damage to various properties.
What can you do to get financial help from your insurance if you were affected by the floods? Below, we will tell you what you must do in order to make the payment, in case you have it.
How to collect insurance in case of floods?
According to information published by Univision, the New York State Department of Financial Services indicates that insurance coverage for flood losses is not included in standard homeowners’ or unit owners’ policies.
- Only such coverage is available under a separate policy issued by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
- If you do not have it, you can check with your insurer for advice on the providers that provide the service in the area.
- If you do not yet have this insurance, you can review the providers that offer the service in this link.
For those who already have insurance that covers these types of flood expenses, the steps to follow, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are as follows:
1) Document lost property. Take photos and videos of the home or personal property damaged by the flood. In the specific case of appliances and electronics, take photos of them, showing the make, model and serial number, and send them to your adjuster.
2) After doing the first step, dispose of flood-damaged items that may pose a health threat. Also, save samples of the affected items to show your adjuster.
3) Meet with your insurance adjuster. Ask for your flood control number card and other official identification. He or she will orient you and work with you to submit an estimate of your covered loss.
4) The amount of your claim payment will be based on the supporting documentation you provide and what your policy covers.
5) It is your responsibility to submit the information supporting your claim and meet the required deadlines.
In case of further questions, it is suggested that you contact the claims department of your flood insurance company.
What to do if you do not have flood insurance?
1) The first thing to do is to review your insurance policy. Many of these for homeowners and renters do not cover flood damage.
2) You can apply for grants from FEMA, if the President of the United States declares New York State a major disaster area, and if the county is named for individual assistance.
3) If the above occurs, FEMA may grant you up to $33,000 to make the necessary repairs to your home.
4) But if your business was affected, then you can apply for a Small Business Administration disaster loan to get additional help for repairs.