Emergency · Storm Flooding Emergency
Storm Flooding in Your Home — FEMA, Insurance, and Safety
Storm and flash flooding brings Category 3 contamination. Evacuate if needed, document for FEMA and insurance, and call restoration — standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood water. Call (888) 840-6512 to reach a certified water damage restoration company in your area; the line is answered 24/7.
Quick answer
Storm and flash floodwater is Category 3 — contaminated from the ground it crossed — so keep out of it and off the power until the house is confirmed safe. Photograph everything before you move a single item: FEMA and your insurer both decide on what you can show. The part homeowners learn too late is that standard homeowners insurance does not cover rising floodwater; that is NFIP or a private flood policy. Typical $5,000–$50,000, and contaminated water starts growing in about 24 hours. To reach a certified crew for the cleanup, (888) 840-6512, answered 24/7.
Press 1 for water damage or 2 for mold, then your 5-digit ZIP. The line goes quiet for about half a minute while it connects — that is normal, stay on. Have ready: the address with ZIP, when the water started, what is wet now, and whether you have opened an insurance claim.
Emergency checklist
Do not enter flooded structures until authorities declare safe — turn off main power if accessible from dry area
⚠ Flood water carries sewage, chemicals, and debris
Evacuate if water is rising, contains sewage, or gas leaks are suspected
⚠ 6 inches of moving water can knock adults off feet
Photograph exterior and interior damage at highest water line before any cleanup
⚠ FEMA and NFIP claims require thorough documentation
Call NFIP/private flood insurer AND homeowners insurer — different policies cover different damage types
⚠ Homeowners insurance does NOT cover ground-level flood water
Register for FEMA assistance at disasterassistance.gov if presidential declaration issued
⚠ FEMA deadline is typically 60 days after declaration
Call IICRC-certified flood restoration — Category 3 protocols required for all porous materials
⚠ Do not use household fans on flood water — spreads contamination
Mold growth timeline
Mold Growth Clock
What happens hour by hour after water damage
0h
elapsed
Water Intrusion
lowHour 0Water enters the structure. Clock starts NOW.
Recommended Action
Shut off water source, move valuables off floor, begin documentation with photos/video.
Next milestone: Absorption Begins at 1 Hour
All Milestones
Storm Flooding Emergency FAQ
Does homeowners insurance cover storm flooding?
NoGround-level flood water, storm surge, and river overflow require NFIP or private flood insurance. Wind-driven rain through roof damage may be covered under homeowners.
How do I apply for FEMA assistance?
Register at disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362 within 60 days of a presidential disaster declaration. Have your insurance info, damage photos, and SSN ready.
When does mold start after flood water?
In warm, humid post-storm conditions, mold can begin within 24 hours. Gulf Coast and Southeast flooding requires drying to begin within the first day.
Who do I call right now for water damage?
Call (888) 840-6512. The line is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and connects you with an IICRC-certified water damage restoration company that serves your area. Describe what you can see — where the water is coming from, how long it has been there, and whether it smells — the more specific you are, the faster the right company is on the line.
If the source is a pipe or an appliance, shut the main water valve first. Have four things ready and the call goes quickly: the address, when the water started, what is wet now, and whether you have filed an insurance claim.
Still not sure which of these is your situation? (888) 840-6512 · toll-free · answered 24/7
Read the full guide: hurricane storm surge flooding guide
(888) 840-6512