Missouri Gov. Offers Tips on Flood Recovery

Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt and the Missouri Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions and Professional Registration encourage Missourians to be on guard against unscrupulous home repair and restoration businesses following the recent flooding. Consumers should question any home repair company that will complete work for much less or much more than an insurance company’s estimates. If a repair company’s estimate is too low, the quality of materials or workmanship may not be up to par. If it’s too high, the company may be price gouging or performing repairs not covered by your insurance policy. Most flood insurance is written through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Insurance companies sell and service policies through an arrangement with FEMA. These tips are offered to consumers filing flood insurance claims:

Call your insurance company and speak to the claims person (adjuster).

• Generally, your adjuster will contact you within 24-48 hours after receiving your notice of loss. However, depending on local conditions and the severity of flooding, it may take more time.
• The adjuster will likely want to meet with you at your house to inspect the damage.
• Take good notes and keep track of the dates of any conversations you have with your agent or adjuster.

You are required to protect your home from further damage.

• This might include boarding up your home if there was damage to the building or cleaning up water from a backed up drain.

You will need to provide proof of your loss; having receipts/pictures will help.

• Separate damaged items from undamaged items. If necessary, place damaged items outside the home.
• Local officials may require the disposal of damaged items. If you dispose of items, please keep a swatch, sample or picture of the damaged items for the adjuster.

Don’t feel rushed or pushed into agreeing with the amount paid for your claim if you’re not comfortable with it.

• It might help to have your contractor meet with you and the insurance adjuster.

If you have trouble or questions, contact FEMA at 1-800-427-4661.