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Residents whose homes, vehicles or businesses were damaged by severe flooding in Istanbul should document their losses with photographs and videos, keep receipts for any expenses and contact their insurance providers, according to insurance consultant Batuhan Balta.
The advice comes after torrential rainfall battered Türkiye's largest city on Wednesday, leaving two people dead, flooding residential neighborhoods and businesses, and stranding numerous vehicles on submerged roads.
As residents begin assessing the damage, Balta outlined the steps affected property owners should take to support their insurance claims while avoiding further risks.
Balta emphasized that documenting the damage should be the first priority once conditions are safe, regardless of whether the affected property is a home, vehicle or business.
He advised residents to photograph and film all visible damage, including flooded interiors, damaged belongings and vehicles caught in floodwaters.
"Whatever damage you have, photograph and film everything one by one," Balta said, stressing the importance of gathering as much visual evidence as possible.
However, he warned that residents should never put themselves in danger while collecting evidence, emphasizing that personal safety takes precedence over any potential financial loss.
For drivers whose vehicles were caught in the flooding, Balta recommended arranging towing assistance whenever the vehicle can be safely removed.
He noted that towing services provided by many insurance companies were already overwhelmed by requests following the severe rainfall.
Vehicle owners who arrange their own towing services should keep receipts and invoices for any payments made, as these documents may be relevant when dealing with their insurance providers.
Balta also encouraged residents to take reasonable measures to prevent further damage to their property, provided they can do so without putting themselves at risk.
Beyond documenting physical damage, Balta stressed the importance of maintaining records of all expenses incurred during the recovery process.
Whether arranging vehicle towing or paying for other damage-related services, residents should request and retain receipts, invoices and any available documentation.
He advised insured residents to pass these records on to their insurance representatives, who can guide them through the remaining claims procedures.
Although insurance coverage may help compensate for losses, the amount and eligibility of any payment will depend on the terms of the policy.
Balta's central message was that residents should prioritize their safety, document their losses thoroughly and leave the insurance procedures to their providers rather than taking unnecessary risks.
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