Here’s everything you need to know about flood insurance coverage.
Does your insurance cover your home against flood damage? In the wake of hurricane Ian’s devastation, many people are experiencing flood damage in their homes. Did you know that your standard insurance policy probably doesn’t cover you for this type of damage?
How do insurance companies treat flood damage? It’s either damage that comes from above or from below. Damage from above can occur if your house or roof is compromised, allowing rainwater to come in. Your policy would usually cover this type of damage.
“How do insurance companies treat flood damage?”
If the flooding comes from ground level, however, this will typically not be covered, even if it results from a storm. That means it would have to be covered under some separate type of flood insurance policy. Unfortunately, less than 20% of Florida homeowners are covered by this type of policy, despite living in an area surrounded by water. Sadly, many Florida homeowners are discovering that they aren’t covered under their standard insurance, putting them at the mercy of FEMA and other government aid packages.
The bottom line is that you need to be aware of your coverage. Don’t assume that it isn’t something you might need just because you don’t live near water or because your mortgage company doesn’t require it. Talk to your insurance agent, or reach out to me if you would like to be referred to someone who can answer your questions. This is a better time than any to take a look at your insurance coverage.
That being said, let’s all start to rebuild. We’ll be strong here together in Florida. If you have any questions, please give me a call or email. Take care until next time, and stay safe out there.
