Millions of people across South Florida remain at risk of severe flooding. Although storming is expected to retreat soon, Sunshine State residents are now coping with several consecutive days of moisture. "Heavy to excessive rainfall will continue to bring flooding, with locally considerable flash and urban flooding possible, through Friday over the southern Florida Peninsula," the National Weather Service said. The Weather Prediction Center has issued a series of warnings this week to alert residents of potential flood danger. "Even moderate rain rates are likely to cause additional flash flooding, as any rainfall will be unable to drain" due to ongoing flooding, the WPC said. Property owners who face the daunting task of cleaning up after a flood would be well advised to heed the tips outlined above from the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI). Taking these steps to determine the extent of flooding damage can assist with the insurance claim process. |

When your home or business has been flooded...

You're sure to have some kind of loss. Even if you haven't been able to estimate the amount or completely assess the damage, take the following steps as soon as possible. |

• Immediately contact your insurance agent or company representative.
• Inspect property and cars for damage.
• Inventory losses and photograph damage, and save related receipts to assist with claims handling.
• Secure property from further damage or theft.
• Check the background and legitimacy of repair contractors. Ask your insurance company for assistance in locating a reputable contractor.
• Keep detailed records of business activity and extra expenses during the interruption period, and prepare records to show the income from the business both before and after the loss.

See also: |

• The fundamentals of flood insurance
• 10 things you should know about adjusting flood claims
• How homeowners can increase property resiliency in a catastrophe