Flood Claim Attorney

Texas is no stranger to the devastating power of water. From the torrential rains of tropical storms and hurricanes to flash floods from sudden downpours, properties across the Lone Star State are constantly at risk. When floodwaters recede, the real battle often begins: fighting with insurance companies to secure the compensation you desperately need to rebuild and recover.

Whether your property is in Houston, on the Gulf Coast, along a river, or in any flood-prone area of Texas, dealing with flood insurance claims can be incredibly complex. Policies are often riddled with exclusions, technical jargon, and specific deadlines that can easily lead to a claim denial, underpayment, or unreasonable delays.

At Mostyn Law, our dedicated Texas Flood Claim Attorneys team, with our extensive experience representing homeowners, businesses, and property owners against the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and private flood insurance carriers, is here to instill confidence in you. We understand the nuances of Texas insurance law and federal flood regulations. We are committed to aggressively advocating for your rights to ensure you receive every dollar you are entitled to for your flood losses.

If your flood insurance claim has been denied, delayed, or underpaid, or you’re struggling to begin the process after a devastating flood, remember that at Mostyn Law, we offer a free, no-obligation consultation. This is your opportunity to take the first step towards resolution. Let us help you navigate these turbulent waters.

The Unique Challenges of Texas Flood Claims

Flood insurance is distinct from standard homeowners’ insurance, which typically excludes flood damage. Understanding flood insurance and the claims process is critical in Texas, where major flood events are a recurring threat.

National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) vs. Private Flood Insurance

• National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): Most flood insurance policies in Texas are written by the NFIP and managed by FEMA. These policies (Standard Flood Insurance Policies or SFIPs) are federal contracts, meaning disputes often fall under federal law, which can limit recovery options compared to state law claims. As of 2025, FEMA’s “Risk Rating 2.0” continues to refine how flood risk and premiums are calculated, aiming for more equitable rates but sometimes resulting in significant changes for policyholders.
• Private Flood Insurance: Many Texans opt for private flood insurance policies, which can offer broader coverage and may be subject to Texas’s robust insurance laws, including provisions against bad faith practices.

Common Reasons Flood Claims are Denied, Delayed, or Underpaid in Texas:

Insurance companies, whether federal or private, often use various tactics to minimize payouts. Common reasons for claim disputes include:

• “Not a Flood”: Insurers may argue that the damage was caused by non-flood water (e.g., burst pipes, sewage backup, or wind-driven rain before a flood event), which might be covered under a different policy or excluded entirely. This is a common tactic to shift liability.
• Late Filing/Insufficient Documentation: Strict deadlines exist (often 60 days to file a Proof of Loss with NFIP), and failing to provide meticulous documentation (photos, videos, itemized lists, contractor estimates) is a primary reason for denial.
• Pre-Existing Damage: Arguing that the damage was present before the flood event.
• Policy Exclusions & Limitations: Claims that certain types of damage or items are not covered under the specific policy terms, or that the damage falls below the deductible.
• Scope of Damage Disputes: Disagreements over the extent of damage, the cost of repairs, or the necessity of specific restoration work.
• Bad Faith Practices (Private Policies): For private insurers, this can include unreasonable delays, failing to conduct a thorough investigation, misrepresenting policy terms, or pressuring policyholders into lowball settlements. While the NFIP is a federal program generally immune to state-level bad faith claims, private carriers are not.
• Disagreement on Actual Cash Value (ACV) vs. Replacement Cost Value (RCV): Disputes over whether items should be valued at their depreciated value or the cost to replace them new.

Why You Need a Texas Flood Claim Attorney at Mostyn Law

At Mostyn Law, we understand that navigating a flood insurance claim can be overwhelming, especially when facing a denial or dispute. That’s why we offer the expertise and dedication crucial for successful flood claim resolution. We are here to support you every step of the way.

• Deep Understanding of Flood Law: Our attorneys are well-versed in the specific laws and regulations governing both NFIP and private flood insurance policies. We know the rules and procedures that insurers must follow.
• Holding Insurers Accountable: We challenge unjust denials, undervalued claims, and unwarranted delays. We understand the tactics insurance companies use and how to counter them effectively.
• Comprehensive Claim Documentation: We help you gather, organize, and present the compelling evidence to support your claim, including detailed damage assessments, expert reports, and contractor estimates.
• Experience with FEMA/NFIP Appeals: If your NFIP claim is denied, we can guide you through the complex administrative appeals process with FEMA, which is a mandatory step before litigation.
• Litigation Readiness: While many claims are resolved through negotiation, we are fully prepared to file a lawsuit and represent you vigorously in court, whether against a private insurer or under the federal Tucker Act for NFIP claims.
• No Upfront Fees – We Work on Contingency: Facing flood damage is already a financial strain. Mostyn Law operates on a contingency fee basis for flood claims. This means:
  • Zero Upfront Costs: You pay nothing out-of-pocket to hire us.
  • We Only Get Paid if We Win: Our fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict we secure for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing.

What to Do After a Flood in Texas

The immediate aftermath of a flood is critical for your safety and your claim. It’s important to act quickly and decisively to ensure your rights are protected.

1. Prioritize Safety: Ensure your family’s safety. Do not enter floodwaters or re-enter a damaged building until it’s deemed safe by authorities. Be aware of electrical hazards, gas leaks, and structural damage.

2. Contact Your Insurer Immediately: Report the flood damage to your insurance provider immediately. Obtain a claim number and the name of your adjuster.

3. Document EVERYTHING: This cannot be stressed enough.

• Photos & Videos: Before any cleanup begins, take extensive photos and videos of the floodwaters, the high-water mark, and all damaged property.
• Damaged Items: Inventory all damaged items, noting their description, estimated age, purchase price, and estimated replacement cost. If possible, keep samples of damaged materials.
• Receipts: Keep receipts for all expenses related to the flood, including temporary housing, cleanup supplies, and emergency repairs.
• Communications: Keep a detailed log of all conversations with your insurance company, including dates, times, names of people you spoke with, and summaries of discussions.

4. Prevent Further Damage: Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage to your property (e.g., removing standing water, drying out salvageable items, boarding up windows). Keep receipts for all mitigation efforts.

5. Be Cautious with Statements: Avoid giving recorded statements to adjusters or signing documents without consulting an attorney. Do not admit fault or minimize your damages.

6. Contact Mostyn Law: Before accepting any settlement offer or facing a denial, speak with an experienced Texas flood claim attorney. We can review your policy, assess your damages, and handle all communications with the insurance company.

Understanding Compensation & Texas Flood Claim Deadlines (2025 Update)

The compensation you can recover from a flood claim depends heavily on your specific policy and the extent of your losses. It typically covers:

• Building Property: Damage to your home’s structure, foundation, electrical and plumbing systems, furnaces, water heaters, permanently installed carpeting, and built-in appliances.
• Personal Property (Contents): Damage to furniture, clothing, electronics, portable appliances, and other personal belongings.
• Additional Living Expenses (ALE): Some private policies may cover ALE if your home is uninhabitable during repairs, although NFIP policies generally do not unless specifically endorsed.
• Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) Coverage: NFIP policies often include ICC coverage (up to $30,000) to help cover the cost of elevating, relocating, or demolishing substantially damaged structures to comply with local floodplain management ordinances.

Critical Deadlines in Texas Flood Claims:

• Reporting the Claim: Most policies require prompt notification to your insurer (e.g., within 60 days for NFIP claims after the date of loss).
• Proof of Loss (NFIP): For NFIP claims, you generally have 60 days from the date of loss to submit a signed and sworn Proof of Loss form with supporting documentation. This is a crucial, non-negotiable deadline.
• Statute of Limitations:
  • For most private flood insurance policies in Texas, the general statute of limitations for contract claims is two years from the date the cause of action accrues (often the date of denial or refusal to pay).
  • For NFIP claims, a lawsuit must typically be filed within one year of the written denial of the Proof of Loss. This is a federal statute of limitations and is strictly enforced.

These deadlines are absolute. Missing them can forfeit your right to recover. It is imperative to consult with an attorney immediately after a flood to ensure all critical deadlines are met.

Contact a Leading Texas Flood Claim Attorney Today

The aftermath of a flood is chaotic enough without the added stress of battling your insurance company. You need a powerful advocate who understands the intricacies of Texas flood claims and is prepared to fight for your recovery. Mostyn Law has a proven track record of helping Texans rebuild their lives after devastating floods.

Don’t let your flood claim be denied or underpaid. Your initial consultation is entirely free and confidential. Let us evaluate your claim, explain your rights, and develop a strategic plan to secure the compensation you are owed.

Call Mostyn Law today at (713) 714-0000 or fill out our convenient online contact form to schedule your free consultation.

Mostyn Law – Houston Office

3810 W. Alabama Street, Houston, Texas 77027
Phone: (713) 714-0000 | Fax: (713) 714-1111
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