Photo of a flooded street

In the United States, floods are the most common disaster. Each year recovery costs increase, making floods a growing problem. Every state in the U.S. can experience flooding – and each has within the past 50 years. The damage caused by flooding can be devastating but flood insurance can help. Here’s what you need to know about floods and flood insurance.

Who is at Risk for Flooding?

The short answer is everyone. Any area can experience flooding. Heavy rains, spring melting, and river flooding can bring on flash floods. However, dam breaks and levee breaches can also occur and have the potential to be extremely destructive.

It was a levee breach that occurred during Hurricane Katrina that caused the city of New Orleans and the Ninth Ward to experience devastating flooding in 2005. It can happen anywhere. You don’t have to live near water to experience flooding.

What is the Difference Between Flood Damage and Storm Damage?

The basic difference between flood damage and storm damage is policies for storm damage don’t cover damage due to flooding. They are separate events. Homeowner insurance covers storm damage and water damage caused by accidental and sudden events like wind-driven rain or a burst pipe. It does not, however, cover flood damage.

Flood insurance is a policy that’s separate from a homeowner’s policy and covers flood events which are defined as overflowing and rising water on land that is normally dry. This type of insurance is available from Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) NFIP.

Are You in a Flood Zone?

This is a question that often comes up when considering buying a home. Although flooding zones are laid out for each city, it’s best to work closely with your insurance agent to determine what kind of coverage you could qualify for depending on your zone. For example, if you are in a flooding zone, but have an elevation certificate, your coverage may end up being very affordable.

Contact Spickelmier insurance to find out what your options are as far as flood insurance goes. It’s important to plan ahead and browse options for a flood insurance policy. Call us at (877) 591-1525 for more information or to purchase flood insurance today.