Flooding in New Jersey is very likely. In fact, between 1994 and 2003 there were approximately 19,000 claims filed in New Jersey alone. If you ever have to experience such flooding in New Jersey, it is important that you know what is involved with filing a NJ flood insurance claim.
The first step in filing a claim is to contact your agent or insurance company immediately. They will then assign a claims adjuster to help you in evaluating the damage to your property as well as your property loss. It is important to realize that flooding can occur at any time in New Jersey and one torrential downfall can cause the Delaware River to swell and the overburdened drainage systems in the state to overflow. If you must file a flood insurance claim, be certain to have the following ready to file the claim:
Name of the insurance company
Policy number
Telephone and/or email address where you can be reached at all times
If your home is damaged to the point that you must go to a shelter or if you cannot be easily reached, provide your agent with the contact information for a trustworthy point-of-contact such as a friend or relative who can find you. If an adjuster is not assigned to you within a few days, contact your insurance agent or company again.
The next step is separating your damaged and undamaged property. Do not throw away an damaged property before the insurance adjuster sees it. If you must discard something, be sure to take photos and keep samples of the items to help prove your claim. For instance, you can keep fabric swatches from your furniture, drapery or carpets. Take photos or video of everything inside and outside. You want to have photos and videos of standing water inside and outside the building as well. Additionally, you will want to photograph or video structural damage, flood water levels on the interior and exterior of the building and covering your contents and property. You need to document as much damage and loss as possible so that you can replace it later.
Additionally, you need to make a list of all damaged or lost items. This is where an inventory list prior to the flood can come in handy. Work with the adjuster to itemize your claim and calculate the damage of the home and all lost property.
The next step in filing a claim under your New Jersey flood insurance policy is to file your proof of loss within 60 days of the flood. This is a sworn statement that is made by you that substantiates your NJ flood insurance claim and it is required by the National Flood Insurance Program and your insurance company before you can receive payment for your losses. This form is provided to you by your New Jersey flood insurance adjuster, but it is your responsibility to provide it to the insurance company. You must include a detailed estimate to replace or repair your property loss and damage as well.
Your NJ flood insurance claim will be payable to you after you and your insurer agree on the amount of damages and the insurance company receives your Proof of Loss statement. Do realize that if there is catastrophic flooding in your area of New Jersey that it may take quite a bit of time to work through the claims process and to receive your payment due to the number of claims that are made. You can speed up the process by being well-prepared prior to the flood.
Franchino Insurance http://franchinoinsurance.com specializes in electrical contractor, plumbing contractor, flood insurance, electrical bond, plumber bond, commercial insurance and business insurance in New Jersey and the surrounding areas.