Flood Insurance Tips

Flood watch, hazardous weather outlook and thunderstorms.

Unfortunately, those terms have made many recent headlines and are likely to dominate the news for the next couple days.

After being pounded by Hurricane Irene, Pottstown enjoyed a brief bit of sunshine that started to dry the borough.

And then more rain came.

Now, the National Weather Service predicts several more inches of rain could fall on the already soaked area.

"Some of the storms could produce gusty winds and heavy rain," the NWS website states. 

The National Flood Insurance Program’s website provides tips to stay safe during a flood and lists steps on how to file a flood insurance claim.

Safety tips:

• Don’t try to walk across streams or drive through flooded roadways.

• Listen to a battery-operated radio for the latest storm information.

• Turn off house utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve if advised to do so.

“If you've come in contact with flood waters, wash your hands with soap and disinfected water,” the site states.

After a flood, the site recommends damaged property be photographed and separated from unharmed items. Also photograph structural damage and standing water levels. The photos will serve as evidence of damage for the insurance adjuster.

“After experiencing a flood, contact your agent or insurance company to file a claim. An adjuster should contact you within a few days of filing your claim,” the site states.

Important information to keep handy includes the insurance company’s name and insurance policy number; a list of damaged items, their date of purchase, value and any purchase receipts.

An adjuster should provide a Proof of Loss form for damages. The form must be filed with the insurance company within 60 days of the flood. 

“You'll receive your claim payment after you and the insurer agree on the amount of damages and the insurer has your complete, accurate, and signed Proof of Loss form,” the site states. “If major catastrophic flooding occurs, it may take longer to process claims and make payments because of the sheer number of claims submitted.”