National Flood Insurance Program

If you are a homeowner and don’t have flood insurance, you may want to start thinking about purchasing a policy as soon as you can. Floods are an inevitable part of Mother Nature’s cycle, and every U.S. state has experienced some kind of flooding throughout history. There is nothing we can do to stop flood events in the future, but protecting your home or business with flood insurance coverage will help you get back on your feet once the crisis is over. Many communities throughout the United States have experienced or will experience some kind of flooding event. Whether it is heavy rain or melting snow, the moving force of water is too much to be taken lightly. In fact, it only takes about six inches of rapidly moving water to knock people off their feet!  Cars and other vehicles can be swept away in only about two feet of moving water. Just think what this kind of force could do your home or business! Having flood insurance may be the only thing that protects your property.

Know The Difference

Before we probe a bit more into home owner flood insurance, let’s talk about some flooding tips. It is always good to have some knowledge about weather terminology. Residents should always know the difference between a flash flood watch and a flash flood warning. A flash flood watch means there is the potential for flash flooding in your area. A flash flood warning means flash flooding is occurring, and you should act immediately! Many people have died during flash flood events when driving their car. Under no circumstances should you ever drive your car through a flooded street. You have no way of knowing the actual depth of the water, and the risks associated with crossing are too great to take on. As the old saying goes “turn around, don’t drown!” This is the best advice to heed if you are out on the road during a flash flood event. Listen to the radio at home. If you are ordered to evacuate, then do so right away. The last thing you want is to get stranded inside your home with all access roads blocked due to high water.

Protect Your Interests

Always obtain a flood insurance quote before obtaining coverage for your home or business. Flood insurance cost will vary. Different providers have different rates depending upon where you live. Obtaining cheap flood insurance is not impossible. There are many flood insurance providers who offer reasonable rates and good policies to protect your home and indoor possessions. You can also go to FEMA’s (www.fema.gov) website for information on the National Flood Insurance Program. Many communities throughout the United States participate in this federal flood insurance program to obtain flood insurance through the government. Communities have to follow government regulations pertaining to building codes so they are better prepared the next time a flood hits them. By having stronger buildings, there is less likely to be serious damage and personal loss. When communities follow these guidelines they receive federal flood insurance in exchange. FEMA typically sets insurance rates for a community by using a flood insurance rate map (FIRM), which outline the regulatory “floodplain”. This FEMA flood insurance map has flooding estimates, which are based on different rainfall amounts for a given area. In other words, insurance rates are based on projected flooding for a certain amount of rainfall. The maps focus on creeks and bayou areas only and not on poor drainage. A flood insurance company can use a FIRM to determine if homes or properties are located in high risk areas, and community leaders can also use these maps when going about floodplain management and redevelopment. Don’t wait until it’s too late! Know what to do when a flood comes and always have flood insurance no matter where you live.

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