Compensation after the flood. “We can clean up, but let’s not throw anything away”
To obtain compensation from the insurer for a house or apartment damaged during a flood, you must report the damage as soon as possible – Let’s put things that were damaged during the flood aside and do not throw them away before the appraiser’s arrival – said Katarzyna Tobiasz, Graś Law Firm in an interview for Wprost.pl and Partners.
Losses caused by the flood are being counted. People who have purchased apartment or house insurance should contact their insurer as soon as possible and check whether it covers damage caused by flood. – We should put things that were damaged during flooding aside and do not throw them away before the appraiser’s arrival – said Katarzyna Tobiasz, Graś i Wspólnicy Law Firm, in an interview for Wprost.pl.
Minimizing the damage
While waiting for the appraiser and the decision to award compensation, it is worth remembering that the insured has an obligation to minimize the damage. Pursuant to Art. 826 § 1 of the Civil Code, the policyholder must take available measures to save the subject of insurance and reduce the extent of the damage. If he fails to fulfill these obligations as a result of willful misconduct or gross negligence, the insurer may refuse to pay compensation.
– For example, we do not turn on the electricity or gas installations. We call in specialists. If the car is flooded, contact the insurer who will inform you whether you can try to start the engine, because in such a case the electrical system could fail, said Katarzyna Tobiasz.
How to report?
Compensation for flooding depends on the policy you have and its scope of protection. The first step is to check the policy and the General Terms and Conditions of Insurance (GTC). Standard apartment or house insurance often covers flooding, but not necessarily flooding. It is important to note that some policies may include a waiting period that excludes the insurer’s liability during the initial period of the policy, usually up to 30 days.
After flooding occurs, you should contact your insurer as soon as possible, preparing your personal data and policy number. It is worth asking about the exact scope of protection and available services. The insurer will be obliged to determine the extent of the damage through inspection. It is crucial to document the damage – photos, videos, lists of damaged property and receipts for costs incurred are extremely helpful.