RALEIGH — North Carolina homeowners, renters or business owners with flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program still have time to gather the information needed to file a Proof of Loss for damaged property.

Because some properties only recently became accessible, the normal 60-day deadline has been extended to 120 days from the date floodwaters first invaded the home or business.

File a claim with an insurance agent and compile the information needed to support it. Photos, videos and receipts are helpful in establishing the value of a property and possessions. Check with an agent for requirements.

If one had to dispose of items before the adjuster inspected the property and don’t have photos, it will help to have the make, model and serial numbers of appliances, heaters, furnaces and water heaters that were hauled away.

If one cannot prove that belongings were brand new at the time of the flooding, the insurance adjuster may depreciate their value. Any information that can be produced to show that property was new or in almost new condition may increase the amount of the insurance settlement.

If one has already have been offered a settlement that is considered too low, one may appeal and submit any information to back up the appeal.

Call the agent who sold the NFIP policy if there are questions. To speak with a representative of the NFIP about flood insurance, call 800-621-3362 and press option 2.