As Alabamans know all too well, trying to predict the weather in this state is like trying to predict the winner of the Iron Bowl– it’s always a surprise and we are never prepared for the outcome. During any given week, we could be graced with gorgeous skies and temperatures of a perfect 75 degrees only to be slapped in the face by rain, wind and severe flooding the very next day. With the uncertainty of weather in this state, it might be a good idea to consider flood insurance coverage to provide peace of mind in the event a cataclysmic disaster were to strike and cause flood damage to your home.
While there may be some who think flood insurance is only necessary for those who live next to a large body of water such as an ocean, lake or river, the Federal Emergency Management Authority (FEMA) reported that almost one-third of claims come from people who live outside of flood zones. Furthermore, it is reported that each home has a 26% chance of being damaged by a flood during the course of a 30-year mortgage, compared to a 9% chance of fire. Just one inch of water can cause costly damage to your home, so it definitely pays to look into your options and see what coverage is available.
To get you up-to-speed on the basics, we’re offering three facts and tips we think you should know:
• Analyze your risk: For those who live in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) or high-risk area and have a federally backed mortgage, your mortgage lender requires you to have flood insurance. To find out if your home could potentially be categorized in a flood zone, visit www.adeca.alabama.gov.
• Be sure you’re covered: Standard homeowners and renters insurance does not cover flood damage, but, coverage is available in the form of a separate policy for those who want it. Another tip to note is that Uncle Sam financially backs all flood insurance policies sold in United States; however, it is important to purchase your policy with an agency that will quickly and smoothly handle your claim, after flood damage.
• Don’t delay: If one day you turn on the TV and see a hurricane barreling toward your community, it will probably be too late to purchase flood insurance protection. While you can buy coverage at any time, there is a 30-day waiting period after you have applied for and paid the premium, before coverage takes effect.
With hurricane season in full effect, it may not be a bad idea to check out flood zones and look into your options. If you need help getting coverage or have any questions about flood insurance, give us a call; we’d be happy to answer any questions you may have.
