After a hurricane or flood, many families face the devastating loss of personal belongings. Knowing the proper steps to take can help you recover some of those losses.

Start With Documentation

Before throwing away damaged items:

• Take photos and videos
• Make a written list of damaged or destroyed property
• Include estimated values if possible

This documentation may be needed for insurance or disaster assistance.

File an Insurance Claim

If you have renter’s or flood insurance, contact your insurance company as soon as possible.

Follow their instructions carefully to avoid jeopardizing your claim.

You may need to:

• Complete claim forms
• Provide photos or receipts
• Schedule an inspection with an adjuster

Always verify the identification of insurance adjusters before allowing them to inspect your property.

FEMA Assistance May Be Available

If you did not have insurance, or if insurance does not cover all losses, you may qualify for assistance from the
Federal Emergency Management Agency.

FEMA programs may help with:

• Replacement of essential personal property
• Temporary housing assistance
• Disaster-related expenses

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to take the place of legal advice. It is designed to inform you with basic information regarding hurricane preparedness and ways to protect yourself as a homeowner or renter after a disaster.

Need Legal Help?

Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. (FRLS) is a non-profit law firm that provides free civil legal aid to eligible individuals, families, and vulnerable communities across 13 Florida counties, as well as to farmworkers statewide.

FRLS office locations:

• Belle Glade
• Fort Myers
• Port St. Lucie
• Immokalee
• Lakeland
• West Palm Beach

Our offices serve the following counties: Lee, Polk, Palm Beach, St. Lucie, Martin, Okeechobee, Indian River, Highlands, Hardee, Hendry, Charlotte, Desoto, and Glades.

You can contact us on our Intake Hotline at 1-888-582-3410.