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Texas Flooding

Please take action to protect yourself during the Texas flooding. Information on how to stay safe can be found on this resource page. If you are a flood insurance policyholder, visit Recovering After a Flood for more.

Tropical Storm Chantal

While Tropical Storm Chantal is passing through, remember to stay inside and follow local officials' instructions. If you are a policyholder and have been affected by the storm, learn how to Start Your Flood Insurance Claim.

How to recover from a flood quickly and safely

Las manos de las mujeres revisan una lista de verificación

What to do when recovering from a flood

  • Wait until it’s safe to enter your home

    Your safety comes first. Before returning to your home, wait for floodwaters to recede and emergency officials to say it’s safe to return.  Make sure electricity and gas are shut off when you go back to avoid fire or injury. For added caution, have an electrician check the house before turning the power back on. 

  • Start your flood insurance claim

    Start a claim with your flood insurance provider as soon as you can. They’ll connect you with an adjuster who will inspect your property for damage. 

  • Take pictures and videos, and keep samples of damaged items

    Take pictures and videos of damage before you begin cleaning up. Take photos of the serial numbers of any damaged large appliances and keep carpet samples too. 

  • Throw out things that risk your health

    After documenting damage, dispose of any perishable items and items that could grow mold, including things like pillows and clothing. 

  • Dry your belongings to prevent mold growth

    National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policies don’t cover mold damage so it's important you begin drying out damaged items as soon as possible to stop mold from growing and spreading. 

  • Select a reputable repair company

    You may need help from an electrician or general contractor to repair your flooded property. Ask for all estimates in writing, and check with your insurance provider before signing any contracts. Ensure any service providers are licensed, bonded and insured. 

  • Check your insurance adjuster’s identification

    Be careful of disaster recovery scams. Ask to see the insurance adjuster’s driver’s license and Flood Control Number to ensure they’re authorized to work on your claim. 

  • See if you qualify for extra funding to rebuild

    You may qualify for up to an additional $30,000 to rebuild in ways that will reduce your flood risk in the future. This is called Increased Cost of Compliance Coverage (ICC). Talk to your insurance adjuster or agent to learn whether you qualify. 

Start your recovery now. File a flood insurance claim.

How to start a claim