Wisconsin Insurance Commissioner Shares Flood Damage Tips

WI Insurance Press Releases

Published August 14th, 2025

Detected March 19th, 2026

Summary

The Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) issued a press release providing tips for consumers experiencing flood damage. The notice reminds residents that flood damage is typically not covered by homeowners insurance but advises on documenting damage, contacting insurers, and being aware of potential scams.

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What changed

The Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) has issued a press release offering guidance to consumers affected by recent flooding. The notice clarifies that standard homeowners insurance policies generally do not cover flood damage, but advises policyholders on the importance of documenting damages, communicating with their insurance providers, and understanding that proof of a denied homeowners insurance claim may be required for FEMA assistance. It also reminds consumers that comprehensive auto insurance may cover flood damage to vehicles and urges vigilance against potential scams by verifying contractor and public adjuster licenses.

Regulated entities, particularly insurers and public adjusters, should be aware that consumers are being advised to document damages thoroughly and to verify the credentials of any contractors or adjusters. While this is a notice and not a rule change, it highlights consumer expectations and potential areas of dispute. Insurers should anticipate claims related to flood damage and be prepared to explain coverage limitations clearly. Consumers are encouraged to contact OCI with any issues or to report inappropriate adjuster or agent activity.

What to do next

Review consumer guidance on flood damage claims and potential scams.
Ensure adjusters and agents are properly licensed and registered with OCI.
Be prepared to explain coverage limitations for flood damage to policyholders.

Source document (simplified)

OCI > Press Release, August 14, 2025, Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance Shares Tips for Communities with Flood Damage

Press Release, August 14, 2025, Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance Shares Tips for Communities with Flood Damage

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August 14, 2025

For more information contact Sarah Smith, Director of Public Affairs, (608) 209-6309 or ** sarah.smith2@wisconsin.gov

Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance

Shares Tips for Communities with Flood Damage

Madison, Wis. – The Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) is sharing tips and reminders for Wisconsinites who may have experienced property damage from recent flooding.

Homeowners insurance does not typically cover flood damage, but it's important to document damage, communicate with an insurer, and consider filing a claim. If a presidential disaster declaration is made and FEMA assistance is made available to Wisconsinites impacted by flooding, homeowners may need to provide proof of a denied homeowners insurance claim before they are able to receive FEMA assistance. FEMA's requirement for proof of a denied claim has been implemented in Texas, for example.

Many Wisconsinites carry comprehensive auto insurance coverage, which does cover damage related to a flood. Those with collision-only coverage would likely not have coverage for flood damage. Consumers should contact their auto insurance provider or agent if they have questions about their coverage or to file a claim.

OCI recommends that consumers consider the following tips as they evaluate flood damage:

Make a list of damaged items
Take photographs of the damages before you begin to clean up.
Keep damaged swatches (carpeting, upholstery, curtains, etc.) if possible
Don't throw out any damaged property without the claim adjuster's agreement.
Keep all receipts that document the cost of the repairs or the replacement of damaged items. Read our After a Storm Hits Fact Sheet for more information at oci.wi.gov/AfterStorm.

“Flood recovery can be stressful and overwhelming. Unfortunately, it's also a time when scam artists try to take advantage of vulnerable homeowners," said Commissioner Houdek. “Before you sign any contracts or make any payments, check that contractors or adjusters are properly licensed. It's important to be alert about potential fraud and never feel pressured into quick decisions."

Nonresident public adjusters are required to register with OCI. Look up the adjuster you are considering if they are a nonresident to ensure they are properly registered.

Read our Avoid a Public Adjuster Scam Fact Sheet for more information at oci.wi.gov/PubAdjusterScam. **

The Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) also encourages consumers to take time to check out a contractor before signing a contract, and to avoid letting door-to-door repair crews into their homes. To check if there are complaints against a contractor, ask questions, or report transient crews, consumers can call DATCP's Consumer Protection Hotline at (800) 422-7128.

Consumers may contact OCI if they have an issue with their insurance company or to report activity of an adjuster or an agent they feel is inappropriate. File a complaint online at oci.wi.gov/Complaints, call (608) 266-3585 or (800) 236-8517, email ocicomplaints@wisconsin.gov, or write PO Box 7873, Madison, WI 53707-7873.