Basic facts from the NC Department of Insurance

• The federal government offers insurance for direct flood and flood-related damage under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
• Homeowners insurance policies do NOT cover flood or rising water damage.
• Some mobile home policies do provide flood coverage; check with your insurance agent or company to see if you’re covered.
• Some auto insurance policies may cover damage to your vehicle; check with your insurance agent or company to see if your vehicle is covered.
• Regulatory authority over NFIP flood insurance policies rests with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, not with the NC Department of Insurance.
• Visit NCHurriClaims.com to access storm-related insurance information and disaster assistance resources.

If I have storm damage, what should I do?

• Contact your insurance agent or company as soon as possible to arrange a visit from an adjuster. Be patient; insurance companies will likely be handling a very large volume of requests.
• Before doing any repairs to your home, photograph and make a list of the damage.
• Protect your home from further damage by making temporary repairs only. Save any receipts for materials purchased for temporary repairs.
• Do not have permanent repairs made until your insurance company has inspected your property, and you have reached an agreement on the cost of repairs.

If you HAVE flood insurance:

• Contact your insurance agent or company to file a claim.
• Document your damaged property.
• File a Proof of Loss with your insurer within 60 days of the flood.
• Call the NFIP Call Center 888-379-9531 for questions and assistance.
• Helpful information and policyholder resources are available on the NFIP FloodSmart web site at

www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/pages/policy_holder/policyholder_resources.jsp.

If you DON’T have flood insurance:

• Call the FEMA Helpline 800-621-3362 to apply for individual assistance and explore resources in your area (or visit DisasterAssistance.gov).

How can I avoid being a victim of a scam?

• Always deal with licensed insurance companies, agents and adjusters. Ask to see identification or call the Department of Insurance to check license status.
• Do not sign any blank application or claims forms.
• Don’t pay in cash for repairs; keep all your records and proof of payments.
• Contact the NCDOI Criminal Investigations Division if you suspect someone of running a scam or defrauding the public so they can be investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
• Call 888-680-7684 or vist NCDOI.com/EZ/ReportFraud.