Flooding can be overwhelming. Between assessing damage, protecting your property, and figuring out what insurance coverage may apply, it’s easy to feel unsure about where to start. At VanVleet Insurance, we’re here to help guide you through the recovery process every step of the way.
1. Prioritize Safety
Before anything else, make sure you and your family are safe. Do not enter a damaged structure if it appears unsafe, and avoid standing water or electrical equipment if there is any risk of electrical shock or contamination. Always follow guidance from local emergency officials.
2. Document the Damage
Before beginning cleanup or disposing of damaged items, take photos and videos of all affected areas if it is safe to do so. Thorough documentation can be extremely valuable during the claims process. Be sure to capture:
- Damaged rooms and living areas
- Walls, floors, ceilings, and visible water lines
- Furniture, appliances, and electronics
- HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems
- Exterior and structural damage
- Damaged vehicles
- Personal belongings
Keep receipts for emergency purchases, cleanup expenses, temporary repairs, and any additional living expenses you incur due to the damage.
3. Contact Your Insurance Agent
Even if you’re unsure whether your damage is covered, give us a call at 765-935-5655.
Many people assume there is no coverage available if they do not have flood insurance. While flood damage is generally excluded under a standard homeowners policy, other damage caused by storms or covered events may still qualify for coverage. Every situation is unique, and it’s important not to make assumptions before reviewing your policy.
Our team can help you:
- Review your policy and explain potential coverages
- Report a claim when appropriate
- Identify other potentially covered losses
- Understand the claims process
- Connect with available resources and assistance programs
Before deciding what options are available, let us review your specific situation.
4. Prevent Further Damage
Once conditions are safe, take reasonable steps to protect your property from additional damage. This may include:
- Removing standing water when possible
- Protecting openings from additional weather exposure
- Moving unaffected belongings to a safe location
- Following professional guidance regarding electricity, mold, and structural concerns
However, avoid making permanent repairs or disposing of major damaged property until your insurance company has had an opportunity to inspect the damage, unless immediate action is necessary to ensure safety or prevent further loss.
5. Stay Organized
Recovery often involves a significant amount of paperwork and communication. Create a physical or digital recovery folder to store:
- Photos and videos
- Insurance documents
- Claim numbers and adjuster contact information
- Contractor estimates
- Receipts and invoices
- Inventory lists of damaged property
- Copies of correspondence
Keeping everything in one place can help streamline your claim and reduce stress throughout the recovery process.
6. Explore Available Disaster Assistance
Depending on the severity of the event and whether a disaster declaration has been issued, assistance may be available through federal, state, and local programs. Resources such as FEMA, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, Indiana 211, and the American Red Cross may be able to provide support during recovery efforts.
FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362.
https://www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/program/road-to-recovery
https://www.in.gov/dhs/emergency-management-and-preparedness/state-disaster-relief-fund/
The American Red Cross in Wayne County, Indiana, is responding to historic flash flooding by operating an emergency shelter at the Wayne County Fairgrounds (Kuhlman Center) located at 861 N. Salisbury Road in Richmond. For immediate disaster assistance or emergency help, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767)
We’re Here to Help
The most important thing to remember is this: you do not have to figure this out alone. As your local insurance agency, VanVleet Insurance is committed to helping our clients and our community recover after a disaster. Whether you need help understanding your policy, filing a claim, or identifying available resources, we’re here for you.
Call: 765-935-5655
Email: vanvleet@vanvleetinsurance.com
Text: 765-387-5041
Office: 1 Glen Miller Parkway, Richmond, IN 47374
This article is intended as general guidance only and does not determine coverage. Coverage decisions are subject to the terms, conditions, and exclusions of the applicable insurance policy and carrier.
NEW INFORMATION effective 9/1/26
