Don't throw out carpets, appliances, sofas just yet Fed-controlled flood insurance wants to see evidence



>>Here are heartbreaking photos of the destruction and flooding caused by Harvey... less Trash from the cleanup from Hurricane Ike begins to collect in the street in Galveston's historic downtown district Sept. 20.

>>Here are heartbreaking photos of the destruction and flooding caused by ... more Trash from the cleanup from Hurricane Ike begins to collect in the street in Galveston's historic downtown district Sept. 20. Photo: Rick Bowmer, AP Photo: Rick Bowmer, AP Image 1 of / 191 Caption Close Don't throw out carpets, appliances, sofas just yet 1 / 191 Back to Gallery

Your carpet may be full of flood water. And your refrigerator may be shot. But don't haul them to the curb, at least not just yet.

The government-controlled federal flood insurance system is particular about gathering evidence of damage, according to insurance adjusters and other experts. It's best to pile the damaged furniture, rugs, appliances and other items in the backyard, driveway or in the garage until an adjuster can come survey the damage.

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It's important to take photos and videos to document the damage, said Tammy Kimsey, an insurance agent with Rochkind Insurance in Galveston. But don't throw anything out, she said. Without proof of the damaged items, there is nothing to adjust.

She also cautioned against beginning the process of making permanent repairs before an adjuster surveys the property. Temporary fixes are okay but nothing more than that.