5 Things You Need to Keep in Mind About Flood Insurance

​Floods are one of the worst disasters that have hit America for the past 50 years. In fact, the renter or homeowner doesn’t have to be near a river or sea. Almost every location faces the dangers of heavy rains, devastating thunderstorms, or huge volumes of melting snow cascading from the mountains. Whether you live in a high-risk area for floods or one that isn’t, the rule is clear – get flood insurance. Here are five things you need to remember before getting a flood insurance policy.

The Flood Risk Areas
The weather in your area may have been peaceful for the past few months but beware. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has specified the flood hazard areas in the entire country. These are the SFHAs, or the Special Flood Hazard Areas, the moderate flood zones, and the minimal flood hazard areas. The homes in SFHAs are required by the state to have flood insurance. However, those in the less hazardous areas are still advised to do the same. 

The Extent of Flood Insurance Coverage
Flood insurance will cover the building as well as any valuables in it. However, this does not include the land itself on which the building or home is located. Also, there could be only limited coverage for lower floors, basements, enclosed floors, and crawl spaces. Purchasers of flood insurance should determine their deductibles in order to determine the value of their premiums and coverage exactly. Don't worry as your electrical and plumbing systems are covered. Your electronic equipment and furniture are also covered, including your appliances.

What the Flood Insurance Doesn’t Cover
Your flood insurance won't cover some aspects of your property. This includes precious metals, important documents like stock certificates, and currency or cash. Your flood insurance also doesn't cover property items outside the house, such as plants, swimming pools, fences, decks, septic systems, and trees. Also, there is no coverage for financial losses due to an interruption of work or business. Flood insurance also doesn't include rent for a temporary shelter. There is also no coverage for cars, motorcycles, or any vehicles.

Who Requires Flood Insurance
Flood insurance is intended for any owner or renter of a property or home that is located in a flood-prone area confirmed by the NFIP community. Several factors affect the insurance rates, such as the contents of the building and the type of building. The presence of a basement on the property is also an essential factor.

Know How to Prepare for a Flood
Check the downspouts and gutters. Make sure that they are free from any clogged debris. Remove any low-hanging tree branches that can allow water to collect. Protect your documents and valuables even as the thunderstorm is still brewing. Take photos of the house and the areas that you think will suffer from the flood. This will support your flood insurance claims. Always do an inventory of everything in your home even before the flood comes. Keep in mind too that many valuables are worth saving than replacing.

Some Final Words
Learn all these ahead of the flood. When you have a home or property, always get ready for any disaster that could strike anytime. Preparation will save so much precious time in case there is unexpected trouble. Also, review your flood insurance coverage while reducing the risk as much as you can. Prevention is always better than cure.

At Sherzer Insurance Agency, we aim to provide comprehensive insurance policies that make your life easier. We want to help you get the insurance that fits your needs. You can get more information about our products and services by calling our agency at (239) 673-9301. Get your free quote today by CLICKING HERE.