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Flood Claim Information

Be Prepared

At Selective, we know floods are a stressful time, which is why we offer a variety of resources to help you prepare, handle and recover from a flood claim should one occur. In the event of a loss, our in-house claims team focuses on providing you accurate and timely updates, servicing each claim with the compassionate care needed during such a difficult time.

How To Report Your Claim

Reporting a flood insurance claim with Selective is easy. We’re available 24/7, and offer a variety of convenient options to choose from:

To report a claim for another Selective policy other than flood, please click here.

Understanding the Flood Claim Process

Have you just experienced a claim?

Follow our helpful tips below to understand what to expect during the claims process.

When reporting your claim, be sure to have your policy number handy and a phone number where you can be reached.

If safe, collect receipts and itemized lists of your belongings damaged by the flood.
Take photos of the water and any of your property or belongings that may have been damaged by the flood.
Keep swatches (small samples) of damaged carpets, curtains or other fabrics damaged for your adjuster.
Once your claim has been reported, an adjuster will be assigned and will contact you to set up an appointment to determine the flood damage. You should work with your adjuster to prepare an accurate estimate. The adjuster will provide a proof of loss statement for you to sign and return to Selective within 60 days of the date of loss. If you disagree with the adjuster’s assessment, you may file your own statement within 60 days of the loss.
Review your policy, as it may have limited coverages in a basement and other areas of your home.

For additional information, please refer to the NFIP's Flood Insurance Claims Handbook.

How to Prepare and Recover From a Flood

A variety of conditions can result in flooding – hurricanes, failed dams and levees, new construction and even droughts. In fact, floods are one of the top natural disasters in the United States and have occurred in every single state.

Since flood insurance typically has a 30 day waiting period from when premium is received before it becomes effective, purchasing a policy now can help ensure you are covered before a flood occurs.

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How to Prepare for a Flood

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How to Recover from a Flood

Cleaning Up After the Flood

Help prevent mold by removing wet contents immediately. Saturated carpeting, stuffed furniture, bedding and any other items holding dampness, moisture or water inside the property should be removed – but samples saved.
Walls, floors, doors, closets and shelves should be thoroughly washed and disinfected to help avoid mold.
Thoroughly dry out the properties’ interior using a portable dehumidifier (rental costs may be covered by flood policy). Your air conditioner can also be used to start the drying process.
If the walls are damaged, take photographs of the baseboard, then remove it. Knock small holes at floor level in the drywall between the wall studs to permit moisture trapped behind the drywall to seep out and begin drying.
Have your furnace and hot water heater checked for damage. While they may seem to work, the floodwater may have damaged the internal elements.

Managing the Repair Process

Most claims are settled within 30 to 60 days of the filing. Repairs however, will probably take longer than this. Be attentive. Ensure you get a quality job at a fair price.

For major repairs, get a minimum of three estimates. Don’t hesitate to question the contractors on variations in pricing.
Make sure all estimates provide work details, offer a fixed price and are signed.
Never proceed with repairs on the basis of a verbal agreement.
Ask for state licenses and references and take the time to call them. Natural disasters often attract unqualified contractors looking to work for cash.

Rebuilding After a Flood

It’s not always easy, but the time you take to ensure your repairs are completed properly, will be well worth it in the long run. While you can’t control when a flood will occur, you can control how well you are prepared. Keeping accurate records, along with photos, receipts and itemized lists will expedite your rebuild if your property should flood in the future.

Remember, your flood policy is not automatically renewed. It’s up to you to pay your renewal bill on time to ensure you don't experience a lapse in coverage. When in doubt, contact your flood insurance agent or Selective at (877) 348-0552.

For more flood claim tips or resources, visit Ready.gov, FEMA.gov or Selective's Facebook page.