Irene’s path along the East coast of the United States has caused significant damage in a number of areas, including massive flooding.

Given the widespread water impacts from Irene, it is important for risk managers and business owners to carefully identify the specific cause and origin of any and all water intrusions onto your property.  The water may have come from storm surge; inland flooding from surface water; flooding of rivers, lakes, and ponds; and water backing up from sewers and drain systems that became overwhelmed by the storm.

It is important to remember that the status of specific locations can change rapidly, even after the storm has passed. Risk managers and business owners should monitor ongoing flood warnings and other information as provided by local authorities.

Marsh recommends the following immediate actions to help mitigate risks associated with flooding from Irene:

• Notify your insurer(s) and Marsh as soon as possible of the event. Establish a flow of communication between employees, insurers, and claims professionals.
• As the specific cause of the water damage may affect the application of your policy to any claim, be careful to identify and document the specific origins of the water.
• Keep abreast of developments via the National Weather Service, local community agencies, and/or local news.
• Where time permits, move raw goods, inventory, files, and other essential items (i.e., computers) away from ground or basement levels and to an upper floor.
• Take caution when entering buildings to avoid hidden damage, such as a weakened foundation.
• If there is significant damage to the structure, turn off the electricity and other utilities, regardless if the power is on or off in the community. Turn it back on when the structure is dry enough.
• Enact your contingency plan and alert all employees and business contacts.
• Identify and capture all costs associated with your insurance claim. Examples include protection and preservation, temporary repairs and replacement, and extraordinary and expediting expenses.
• Record evidence of damage, including photographs and/or video.

Marsh’s dedicated property and claims professionals are experienced in successfully handling flooding claims and can assist you in all facets of the process, from pre-loss preparation strategies through the settling of a claim. Marsh’s Property Practice and Flood Service Center experts can also work with you to determine the insurance and risk management options that best fit your needs.

To learn more, contact your Marsh client or claims representatives, or call Marsh’s Catastrophe Hotline at +1 866 252 7492.