Every property owner is susceptible to flood damage and your current insurance probably doesn’t cover it.
Yes, that sounds like a bold statement, but it’s also a fact. Unfortunately, many people are uninformed about flood risks. They think a flood won’t happen to them or they just feel that flood insurance isn’t worth it. We think it’s important to talk about it together and make sure you have the right coverages in place to keep your property and belongings safe.
Did You Know…
Floods are the most common natural disaster in the U.S. Technically, everyone lives in a flood zone because a flood can happen anywhere, at any time. Poor drainage systems, summer storms, melting snow, neighborhood construction, and broken water mains can all result in flooding.
➧ The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) says that all 50 states have experienced floods
➧ There’s a 26% chance that you’ll experience a flood at some point during a 30-year mortgage, according to FEMA
➧ 40% of all flood claims are in moderate and low-risk flood zones
The devastating damage that flooding can cause is not covered under a standard homeowner, condo, or renters insurance policy. To protect your finances from the threat of flood damage, you may want to consider purchasing a flood insurance policy.
What Is Flood Insurance?
Flood insurance is a standalone insurance policy, separate from your homeowners policy, that covers your home and personal belongings from flood-related damage. Flooding is defined as an overflow of water onto land that is typically dry (of course, some exclusions do apply)
There are two types of coverages that come with flood insurance policies: dwelling and contents. Dwelling coverage protects your home and its foundation, built-in appliances, and attached structures. Contents coverage includes clothing, collectibles, furniture, décor, and portable appliances.
Is Flood Insurance Mandatory?
Your mortgage lender may require you to buy flood insurance, especially if you’re buying a house in a specifically designated flood zone. Federal law requires anyone who buys a home with government-issued or government-backed financing in a high-risk flood area to purchase flood insurance. However, even when flood insurance is not federally required, it may still be recommended, even in moderate to low-risk areas.
What is the Likelihood of Suffering a Flood Loss?
The question everyone wants us to answer is, “Do I really need flood insurance?” If flooding is common or likely in your area, buying a flood insurance policy is a good idea.
Even if your property is in a moderate to low-risk area, you should consider it.
You may decide you’re not interested in taking a chance with floods, especially given the extreme weather of recent years
You may decide you don’t want to worry every time there is a storm and your peace of mind is worth the cost of putting a flood olicy in place
You may realize that you do not have the finances to repair
your home or replace your belongings after a flood
When just one inch of water in a home can cost more than $25,000 in damage,
flood insurance can be the difference between recovery and financial devastation.
It’s important to note that there’s usually a waiting period before your flood insurance goes into effect, although some exceptions can apply. Don’t wait until a storm comes to find out if flood insurance is right for you.
Let’s set up some time to talk so we can work together to ensure you and your family have the coverage you want!
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