Filing Property Insurance Claims Related to Flooding and Other Water Damage

The days during and after torrential rainfall can be confusing and stressful, especially for those who have suffered property damage. To assist with the claims process, the Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking is providing contact information for the insurance companies that underwrite most of the property insurance business in the District of Columbia. If you do not see your company listed and do not have contact information for your insurer, call DISB at (202) 727-8000.

Before calling your insurance company, please have your policy number and other relevant information available in order to expedite processing your claim. If you can, take photographs or video of the damage before clean-up or repairs. After you have documented the damage, take steps to prevent further damage to your property (cover broken windows, leaking roofs and damaged walls). Do not have permanent repairs made until your insurance company has inspected the property and you have reached an agreement on the cost of repairs. Save all related receipts, including those from temporary repairs. Ask what documents, forms and data you need to file the claim. Keep a diary of conversations with the insurance company and your insurance agent, including names, times and dates of the calls or visits and contact details. Cooperate fully with the insurance company. Be certain to give the company all the information it needs. Incorrect or incomplete information may cause a delay in processing your claim.

If you believe you are being treated unfairly, contact DISB at [email protected] or call (202) 442-7849 between 8:15 am and 5 pm. Monday through Friday, or complete complaint form.

Be advised that home repair fraud increases following a major storm. Protect your investment by getting more than one bid from contractors and requesting at least three references. Ask for proof of licenses, building permits, insurance and bonding. Record the contractor’s license plate number and driver’s license number, and check for any complaints about the contractor with the Better Business Bureau. Be wary of contractors who demand up-front payment for repairs. If the contractor needs money to buy supplies, go with the contractor and pay the supplier directly.

Feel free to call these numbers to report your claims:

Homeowners insurance

Related information: 

• Flood Insurance Coverage Frequently Asked Questions 
• Evaluate Your Need for Flood Insurance
• DISB Consumer Guide: Flood Insurance Basics
• Business Commercial Flood Insurance Fact Sheet