7 on Your Side: Help with flood insurance claims

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- There are things you can do to make life easier when it's time to file your insurance claims.

RESOURCES: San Jose flood evacuation centers and help info

We talked to the consumer advocacy group, United Policyholders and they said you should take pictures before and after the evacuation, document how much water entered your home and itemize your possessions by taking photos.

They also advise to keep a diary and note the date and time of your evacuation and notify your insurance company right away if you have flood insurance.

If you don't have flood insurance, unfortunately, you are not likely to be covered for any damage.

RELATED: More than 200 San Jose residents evacuated in floods

One exception might be if the flooding was caused by something other than rainfall--for instance, if a storm drain was damaged by storm debris and forced flood waters into your home, you could be covered.

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