Floods can cause huge losses, both material and emotional. Once the water recedes, victims face an important task – reporting damages and applying for insurance compensation. This process can be complicated, so it is worth knowing what steps to take to obtain full compensation. In the following guide, we present a step-by-step guide on how to successfully go through this process.
Check your insurance policy
The first step after a flood is to thoroughly review what your insurance policy covers. Not all homeowners or business insurance policies cover flood damage. Make sure your policy includes a clause that covers flood damage. When reviewing your policy, look for:
- Scope of coverage (what exactly is insured),
- Exclusions, i.e. situations in which the insurer will not pay compensation,
- Coverage limits and any additional conditions.
Report the damage as soon as possible
Time is of the essence in the claims process. Most insurance companies require that you file a claim within a certain time frame after the event occurs – usually within 24-72 hours. To make sure you don’t miss this deadline:
- Contact your insurer by phone or via an online platform, if possible.
- Have your policy number and information about the damage ready.
The report should include basic information about the type of damage, location, and date of the incident. A quick response will help avoid problems related to the refusal of compensation due to exceeding the reporting deadline.
To successfully recover your insurance claim, you must carefully follow claims procedures, provide full documentation, and file your claim in a timely manner.
Damage documentation
Documenting damage is one of the most important parts of the claim process. The insurer needs accurate information to assess the extent of the damage and its cause.
- Take as many photos and videos of the damage as possible, both inside and outside the building.
- Make a list of damaged property, including furniture, household appliances, documents, and other valuable items.
- If possible, keep invoices, receipts and other documents that can confirm the value of the damaged items.
Damage assessment by an expert
Once you have reported the damage, your insurer will send an appraiser to assess the damage and prepare a report. It is important to be present at this visit as the appraiser may need additional information or details that were not included in the previous reports. During the appraiser’s visit:
- Make sure that each damaged item of property is described in detail,
- Ask about possible steps to proceed,
- Provide all photographic documentation and a list of damaged items.
Wait for the insurer's decision
After receiving the expert's report, the insurer will review the application and assess the amount of compensation to be paid. The waiting time for a decision depends on the complexity of the case, but usually it takes from a few days to a few weeks. Possible decisions are:
- Payment of full compensation – if the insurer determines that the damage is within the scope of the policy.
- Partial compensation payment – if the insurer decides that part of the damage is not covered by the policy or that the compensation will be reduced.
- Refusal to pay compensation – if the insurer determines that you have not met the terms of the policy (e.g. damage was caused by reasons excluded from insurance).
Appeal in case of refusal
If you are refused compensation or your valuation is inconsistent, you have the right to appeal. To do this:
- Review the appraiser's report and the insurer's decision for any inconsistencies.
- Collect additional evidence that can support your position.
- Submit a written appeal to your insurance company explaining why you disagree with the decision.
If necessary, it is a good idea to consult with an attorney specializing in insurance law to increase the chances of a successful appeal.
Future-proof flood protection
Once you’ve gone through the process of claiming compensation, it’s worth considering future flood protection. Here are some steps that can help:
- Invest in additional safeguards, such as raising foundations, flood barriers or water pumps.
- Review your policy regularly to make sure it covers all flood-related perils.
- Report any changes to the structure of your home or property that could affect your insurer's risk assessment.
The process of obtaining compensation after a flood can be complicated, but proper preparation and following the steps described significantly increase the chances of success. It is important to report damage promptly, document the damage, and cooperate with the appraiser and insurer. Knowledge of the policy terms and the rights of the insured allows you to avoid unpleasant surprises and obtain full compensation.
Sources:
Głowacka, A. (2023). "Flood compensation: what to do to get it?" Ubezpieczenia24.pl
Kowalski, M. (2022). "How to get compensation for flood losses?" UbezpieczeniowyPortal.pl
Social Insurance Institution (2021). "How to properly report flood damage?"
Take advantage of our virtual office in the very center of Krakow and give your company a prestigious address without having to rent a physical space! We offer professional correspondence service, access to conference rooms and full administrative support - everything you need to focus on developing your business in a convenient location.
English (UK) 
Polski 
