Flood Facts
Did you know. . .
• Floods and flash floods are the most common natural disaster, occurring in all 50 states.
• Floods cause devastating damage to buildings and personal belongings.
• One in three flood insurance claims are generated outside areas considered"flood-prone."
• Homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage.
Before a flood. . .
• Make a written, photographic and/or videotaped inventory of household possessions and property, and store it in a safe place (e.g. A relative's home or safe deposit box) with insurance policies, documents and other valuables.
• Take a first aid class from your local American Red Cross chapter.
• Assemble a disaster supplies kit that includes a first aid kit, canned food, nonelectric can opener; bottled water (emergency managers recommend 3 gallons per person), rubber boots, rubber gloves, battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries.
• Identify evacuation locations.
During a flood. . .
• When a warning is issued, listen to local radio and TV stations for information.
• When a watch is issued, move furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home.
• Abandon your car if stalled in rapidly rising waters and climb to higher ground.
• Do not drive into any large puddles or into water that seems to be moving rapidly.
After a flood. . .
• Call your insurance agent as soon as possible to see if you need to file a claim.
• Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Keep all receipts.
• Delay permanent repairs until your insurer approves reimbursement.
• Get any necessary construction permits from your community.
• Prepare an inventory of all damaged or destroyed personal property. Take photos of damaged areas.
• Save remnants of damaged or destroyed property for your insurance company adjuster.
• Meet with your adjuster before signing anything with contractors, lawyers or public adjuster.
• Let your car dry out before trying to start it.
Protecting yourself is easy!
• Flood insurance picks up where your homeowners insurance leaves off. It is not expensive, especially when compared with the monthly payments for disaster loans, and it's easy to get -- simply call your insurance agent.
What to ask your insurance agent?
• Do I have flood insurance?
• How much flood insurance should I purchase?
• How much contents coverage should I purchase?
• Should I consider a three-year policy to reduce my premiums?
• Do I qualify for a preferred risk policy?
• Can I finance my premiums?