Gather your property details
- Your address, occupancy, and basic construction details.
- Your current policy documents and any lender instructions.
- Available flood-map information, elevation documents, and details of previous flooding.
- A list of improvements, lower-level rooms, and major equipment.
Questions to ask about each policy
- What limits and deductibles apply to the building and belongings?
- What is covered in a basement, crawlspace, or enclosed lower level?
- How would covered damage be valued and settled?
- Are temporary living expenses included?
- When would coverage take effect, and what conditions could affect that date?
- Does the policy meet the lender's requirements?
- Who handles a claim, and what documentation should I keep?
Bring your next-step list
Build a personalized property checklist and print it for your records. This checklist is preparation for a conversation; it is not an insurance application or a coverage determination.
Reference: FEMA FloodSmart's policy guide.