Indiana Flood Recovery Guide for Homeowners and Businesses
The flooding in Indiana and surrounding communities has been devastating. Many families and businesses are dealing with unexpected losses, and knowing what to do next can be overwhelming.
We know that after a major loss, people need more than an insurance policy. They need clear information, practical next steps, and resources they can trust.
We have gathered the information below to help you understand how to document flood damage, report your loss, navigate the insurance claims process, and find available resources.
What Should I Do After a Flood?
Document everything before you clean up. If it is safe to enter your property, begin documenting the damage before removing or discarding anything.
- Take photos and video: Start with wide shots of the exterior and each room, then take close-ups of damaged areas and belongings. Capture the high-water line whenever possible.
- Create an inventory: Document equipment, inventory and stock, furniture, fixtures, computers, vehicles and structural damage. Include the make, model, serial number, age, and purchase price when available.
- Don’t discard damaged items before documenting them: Photograph items before they go to the curb and, when possible, keep a small sample of damaged materials, such as a piece of carpet or baseboard.
- Keep every receipt: Save receipts for cleanup, temporary repairs, debris removal, equipment rental, generators, fuel, lodging, and other costs related to the loss.
- Keep a simple log: Record dates, who you spoke with, and what you spent.
Inspectors and insurance adjusters may not arrive immediately, so detailed documentation can be extremely important. Insurance and potential disaster-relief programs rely on documentation to determine losses and assistance.
Should I File an Insurance Claim After Flooding?
Yes. Contact your insurance company even if you expect the damage may not be covered. Your insurance policy determines what is covered, and reporting the loss allows your insurance company to evaluate the damage and provide a determination of coverage. If you are a Shepherd Insurance client, you can visit our claims page for carrier-specific information or contact Shepherd Insurance for assistance.
It is important to document your loss and keep your insurance claim information and related expenses organized. A written insurance determination may also be important when pursuing other disaster-assistance programs, since federal programs generally cannot duplicate benefits available through insurance.
Do not wait to report your insurance claim while waiting to find out whether federal disaster assistance becomes available.
How Do I Report Flood Damage in Indiana?
Reporting your losses is one of the most important things you can do right now. Damage reports help officials understand the scope of the disaster and determine what assistance may be needed.
Homes and residential property
Call Indiana 211 at 211 or 866-211-9966, or use the state’s damage reporting resources. Indiana 211 is activated county by county for individual storm events, so confirm that Wayne County is listed before assuming your report has gone through.
Businesses and commercial property
Businesses and commercial property owners should report damage to the Wayne County Emergency Management Agency at 765-973-9399, rather than Indiana 211.
Farms
Agricultural losses should be reported directly to your local USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) office.
State-level questions about individual assistance
For questions about individual assistance:
317-232-2222
ia@dhs.in.gov
What Does the Indiana Disaster Declaration Mean?
On August 13, Governor Mike Braun signed Executive Order 26-21 declaring a statewide disaster emergency. The declaration mobilized the Indiana National Guard and directed state agencies to move equipment and personnel where they are needed.
However, a state disaster declaration does not automatically open FEMA Individual Assistance or SBA disaster loans. Federal assistance requires federal action and depends on the specific disaster declaration and affected areas. The Governor has requested federal assistance following the flooding, but residents should not wait for a federal decision before documenting their damage, reporting their losses, and contacting their insurance company.
For official updates, visit the Indiana Department of Homeland Security and FEMA. FEMA and SBA do not charge fees. If federal assistance becomes available, use only official government resources.
Flood Cleanup Safety Reminders
Flood cleanup can create additional hazards. Before beginning cleanup:
- Treat floodwater as contaminated.
- Confirm that any boil advisory has been lifted before drinking tap water.
- Do not restore power to a flooded building until an electrician has cleared it.
- Photograph damage before removing wet materials whenever possible.
- Move quickly on wet drywall, insulation, and carpet. Mold can begin developing within 24 to 48 hours.
Be Cautious of Disaster Scams
Unfortunately, disasters can attract individuals seeking to take advantage of those already dealing with significant losses. Verify contractor licensing, get agreements in writing, and never pay the full amount upfront. If you encounter price gouging, report it to the Indiana Attorney General’s Office.
Could Flood Damage Affect My Taxes?
If a federal disaster declaration is made, you may be able to claim qualifying casualty losses on your prior year’s tax return, which could potentially provide a faster refund. Tax rules can vary based on your circumstances, so ask your accountant or tax professional whether this applies to you.
Statewide Resources
Indiana 211
211 or 866-211-9966
For residential damage reporting and information about local community resources when the applicable county and disaster event are activated.
Indiana Department of Homeland Security
For statewide disaster information, damage reporting and emergency-management resources.
County Emergency Management Agencies
Each county has its own emergency management agency. Businesses, commercial property owners and residents can contact their county EMA for information about local damage reporting, shelters, supplies and recovery resources.
Find your county’s emergency management information through Indiana DHS
USDA Farm Service Agency
Farmers and agricultural producers should report agricultural losses to their local USDA Farm Service Agency office.
Find your local USDA FSA office
FEMA
If federal disaster assistance becomes available for affected areas, use FEMA’s official website or phone number to apply and check eligibility.
FEMA Disaster Assistance
800-621-3362
U.S. Small Business Administration
If an applicable federal disaster declaration makes SBA disaster assistance available, businesses and other eligible applicants can find information through the SBA’s official disaster assistance resources.
Indiana Attorney General
Report suspected price gouging or other consumer concerns following a disaster.
Indiana Attorney General — Consumer Protection
How Shepherd Insurance Can Help
At Shepherd Insurance, we understand that an insurance claim is only one part of recovering after a disaster.
When your home, business or property has been damaged, our goal is to help make the insurance side of the process as clear and manageable as possible. If you are a Shepherd Insurance client affected by the flooding, our team is here to help. We can help you understand the claims process, connect you with your insurance carrier, and provide guidance on the next steps available under your policy. Visit our claims page or contact your Shepherd agent for assistance.
