Flood

File a claim online on your Allstate policy or your National Flood Insurance Policy purchased through an Allstate agent or call 800-54-STORM (800-547-8676).

Flooding may be localized or catastrophic. It may be part of a hurricane, brutal thunderstorm, sudden thaw or other widespread disaster. Many floods arrive with advance warning so you can prepare. Weather forecasts will indicate that storms are on the way or that nearby rivers are rising because of a heavy run-off upstream. Depending on how much time you have, there are steps you can take to minimize any losses. 

Preparation tips

• Use water-resistant building materials in areas below the base flood elevation.
• Leave rooms unfinished that are below base flood elevation.
• Install back-flow valves or standpipes on sewer lines to prevent back-up.
• Raise, anchor or shield all equipment that is in an area below base flood elevation.
• Install and maintain a sump pump system.
• Use native plants and vegetation in your landscape to combat erosion.
• Become familiar with the emergency flood plan for your area.
• Prepare an emergency supplies kit including: three day water supply, three day supply of non-perishable food with manual can-opener, disposable plates, cups and utensils, first aid kit including prescription medications, battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries, personal hygiene items and any essential items for individual family members.
• Keep papers, valuables and irreplaceable items on upper floors or higher elevations.

Safety tips

• Listen for news reports to learn whether the community's water supply is safe to drink.
• Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated or electrically charged.
• Avoid moving water.
• Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car
• Stay away from donwed power lines and report them to the power company.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
• Stay out of buildings surrounded by floodwaters.
• Use extreme caution if entering flooded buildings.
• Be cautious when clearing or moving debris. Floodwaters may have carried animals or snakes into the area.
• Clean and disinfect everything that got wet.
• Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits and leaching systems.
• More information is available at FEMA.

Report your loss and check for damages

• Contact your Allstate agent directly, report your claim online or call 800-54-STORM (800-547-8676).
• If your property suffered damage from wind, hail, fire, etc. which may be covered by your Allstate Homeowners policy, report the damage at the same time that you report your flood loss.
• If your vehicle was damaged due to perils covered by the comprehensive portion of your auto policy, report that too.
• Make an inventory list of all damaged contents. Keep in mind that not all contents are destroyed by water but may be able to be cleaned and disinfected.
• Look for holes in the roof, walls, or windows and cover them with boards, tarp, or plastic sheeting to prevent additional damage.
• Walk around the outside of the building and check for gas leaks, loose power lines and structural damage. Open the door slowly, sticking indicates that the ceiling may be ready to fall.
• Test for water trapped in walls by removing the baseboard.
• Remove as much debris and mud as possible.

Learn more about flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) serviced by Allstate. Contact your Allstate agent to purchase this coverage.