Helpful Facts, Myths, and Tips About Flood Insurance
El Nino, you don’t scare us!
1. Flood insurance IS NOT covered by your standard homeowner’s policy. Your homeowner’s policy would cover water damage from something like a leaky pipe, but not from threatened devastation of El Nino.
2. Even if you do not live in an area marked as a “flood zone” your home may still be at risk, and you are able to purchase flood insurance.
3. Flood insurance DOES NOT cover everything, it tops out at $250,000 for your home. In order to get coverage on your personal belongings, it has to be specifically requested by you. Another thing to ask for, is that living expenses be covered, just in case you have to move out while your home is being repaired.
4. Typically, there is a 30-day waiting period for coverage, so don’t wait until it’s too late or you may get caught up the creek without a paddle…in your own living room.
5. If you have lived in your home for many years, more than likely, you know what to expect when the weather gets crazy. If you’ve just recently purchased your home, try talking to your neighbors and see what they have to say about the area. Betcha they’ll be more candid about the area than the Real Estate Agent that sold you the house.
6. Flood plains and maps change over time. Your home may not have been in a flood zone when you purchased it, but it may be now. To find out, check out www.Floodsmart.gov.
7. Finally, even if you have flood coverage, you can never be too safe. Put together a disaster preparedness kit. For tips on what to include, check out: www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/flood