Document your belongings
Keep a record of valuable household items, like your washing machine, and store it with other important documents. This list will come in handy if you need to make a flood insurance claim.
Make a list of household valuables
Take photos and videos of all major household items and valuables. Include their serial numbers if they have them. Start with items your flood insurance policy covers.
For building coverage, list things like your refrigerator and water heater. For contents coverage, list items such as your microwave and valuable items like original artwork.
Store your list with other important documents
Save your inventory along with important documents like passports and your flood insurance policy in a safe dry place. For original documents, consider using a watertight safety deposit box.
Prepare your property with flood insurance
FAQs about preparing for a flood
Taking pictures of your valuable items — from fridges to fur coats — can make your claims process easier. You’ll have a clear idea of the items to claim and their worth. It’s one less thing you’ll need to worry about in the aftermath of a flood.
The NFIP offers flood insurance policies to protect your home, business and belongings.
Home and business coverage is called building coverage. These policies cover things like your foundation, plumbing and electrical systems. It also covers major items like your furnace, stove and dishwasher.
Belongings coverage is called contents coverage. It covers things like your furniture, window air conditioner or business merchandise.
Elevating and anchoring appliances and heating systems can minimize potential flood damage.
If your community is under a flood watch, move the valuable household items to the highest floor of your home.
Taking a household inventory and elevating items is a good start, but it’s not enough. Getting flood insurance is the best way to prepare your property for a flood.
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Minimize damage when flood risk spikes
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Take action when you’re under a flood watch to reduce potential damage to your property.
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Follow the preparation checklist
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There are a number of actions you can take to prepare your property and belongings for a flood.
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Modify your property for extra protection—and a policy discount
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Making changes to your home or business can reduce potential flood damage and may lower your flood insurance premium.
