Recent Flooding Events and Reminds Homeowners – Check Your Flood Insurance Policies

Lately, in parts of Texas and New Mexico, torrential rains have caused widespread flooding much to the dismay of local residents. Not only do the floodwaters destroy infrastructure like bridges and roadways but also negatively affect homes.(USA Today, Floods swamp parts of Texas, New Mexico, September 22, 2014)

Homeowner’s insurance is a necessity for anyone who decides to purchase his or her own home. While it is hard to predict how severe natural disasters will be and how much damage they will do, having a comprehensive homeowner’s insurance policy can help ease financial fears. There are several hazards like floods, however, that require a separate policy so consumers need to be mindful.

According to Ready.gov, “Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States, however not all floods are alike. Some floods develop slowly, while others such as flash floods, can develop in just a few minutes and without visible signs of rain. Additionally, floods can be local, impacting a neighborhood or community, or very large, affecting entire river basins and multiple states,” (Floods: Ready.gov, April 17, 2014).

“Don’t forget to review your auto insurance policy along with your homeowner’s insurance,” advises Frank N. Darras, America’s top disability insurance lawyer.“Comprehensive auto coverage can cover repair costs when it comes to storm damage. Since many states only require liability coverage, some policyholders may cut costs by forgoing other important coverage options. You may not see the use for it right away but there may be a time where it saves you thousands of dollars in repair bills.”

There are many ways homeowner’s can protect their home against water damage, including participating in the National Flood Insurance Program. Since homeowner’s insurance policies don’t cover damage from groundwater due to floods or heavy rain, policyholders will need to buy their flood insurance elsewhere. FloodSmart.gov has all the information needed to begin the search for a flood insurance policy.

“If you have questions regarding your policy, always discuss them with your trusted insurance agent. They may even have suggestions for how to create an all-inclusive policy so that you are covered no matter the circumstances. Natural disasters cause billions of dollars in damage every year so don’t get caught without a policy to cover you or you may be paying the price for years to come,” says Darras.