How Do You File an Insurance Claim After a Hurricane?

Before you call anyone, pull out your homeowner's insurance policy and read the sections about storm, wind, and flood damage. Many standard policies exclude flood damage, which is often a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program. If you live in a region where severe storms are uncommon, your policy may not cover wind-driven rain or storm surge, but water damage from burst pipes or sump pump failures might be covered.

Once your documentation is ready, call your insurance company to file a claim. Have your policy number, the date of the storm, and a summary of the damage ready. The insurance company will assign a claims adjuster to your case. The adjuster will schedule a time to inspect the damage, so be prepared to walk them through your home and show them your documentation.

Ask the adjuster about the timeline for the claim, what documentation they need, and what steps you need to take next. Some insurance companies allow you to submit photos and forms online, while others prefer a phone call. Keep a log of every conversation, including the date, time, and the name of the person you spoke with. This helps if there are questions later.

The claims adjuster will inspect the damage and estimate the cost of repairs. Be present during the inspection if possible, and point out every area of damage you have documented. Ask the adjuster to explain their findings and what the claim payout will cover. If you disagree with the estimate, you can ask for a review or provide additional documentation.

After the adjuster submits their report, your insurance company will send you a claim decision and a payment, if approved. The payment may be for the actual cash value of the damage, which factors in depreciation, or the replacement cost, which covers the full cost of repairs. Understand which type you have so you can plan your budget. If you have questions about the claim, contact your insurance company directly.