Insurance claim tips for Texas flood victims

The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) reminds flood victims to document damages and file insurance claims quickly.

For home damage

• If you have flood insurance and your home flooded, call your company to file a claim as soon as possible. If you have a policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), call 877-336-2627. NFIP policies require you to file a claim within 60 days.

  If you have a flood policy through your insurance company but can’t find their phone number, we can help. Call us at 800-252-3439.

• Not sure if you have flood insurance? Most home and renters policies don’t cover flood damage, but a few do. Even if you don’t have flood coverage, you might need a denial from your insurance company to apply for federal disaster assistance if it becomes available.
• File a home insurance claim if you have other damage. Most home policies cover damage from wind or falling tree limbs. They’ll also cover damage to fences.
• Take photos or video of the damage as soon as it’s safe. Don’t throw away damaged items until you talk to your insurance adjuster.

For auto damage

• File an auto claim if your car flooded. Your auto policy covers flood damage if you have comprehensive coverage.
• Take photos or video of the damage. If it’s safe to do so, also take pictures of your car in the water.
• Talk to a mechanic before trying to dry out a car that got water inside.

For FEMA assistance

Homeowners and renters with damage or other storm-related costs not covered by insurance policies may be able to apply for federal disaster assistance.

If you have insurance questions, call our Help Line at 800-252-3439 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time, Monday through Friday.

Learn more

• Help after a disaster
• Workers’ compensation resources for Central Texas flooding
• Storm damage? Here are 10 tips you need to know (video)
• FAQ: Homeowners insurance and disaster claims
• Flooded cars: What to know about insurance claims and repairs
• Insurance for RVs: Know your coverages
• When are water damage and mold covered by insurance?
• What if my insurance isn't paying enough?
• How to avoid contracting scams