Many businesses and homeowners go without flood insurance. They figure the odds are low that anything will happen. Some people may think that a flood is covered under their current policy. Let us correct you; unless you have added the coverage, it is excluded. We agree that the probability is low, none the less, it does exist. Some mortgage companies may even require flood insurance, depending on where your home is located.
Your property may not be as safe from flooding as you think it is. Flooding even occurs in areas that aren’t close to water. In fact, 30% of all flood claims occur in low to moderate risk zones. Flooding is the leading natural cause of property damage in the United States, and records show that the average flood claim amounts to nearly $42,000. Further, between 2003 and 2012, flood insurance claims averaged nearly $4 billion each year.
Myths about flood insurance:
- It is expensive. Costs generally run around $500-$600 per year, depending on location and home value.
- Flood insurance is for people who live by rivers. 1-4 flood claims come from homes not in flood plans.
- Water damage is water damage. While most policies cover water damage from rain, it excludes coverage from flooding or rising waters.
If your home is in a flood zone, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers coverage and we can help you secure affordable coverage.
Insurance is all about understanding risks, and not every homeowner is equally at risk for flood losses. Your risks depend on how close you live to rivers, streams, lakes or flood zones, or how well your home was built to withstand losses.
The last thing we want is for you to be knee deep in water without the proper insurance. We recommend you consider the options, contact us today.
