Understanding Flood Insurance

Flood insurance is distinctly different than the Water and Sewer Back-Up Coverage provided through many homeowners policies. While water and sewer back-up coverage pays for damages caused by water coming in through sewers and drains, flood insurance typically covers damages caused by an overflow of lakes, rivers, streams and ditches, or from the unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters after heavy rainstorms.

Flood insurance is extremely beneficial. However, since it is not available through regular homeowners policies, it must be purchased as a separate, stand-alone policy provided by the federal government. It is called the National Flood Insurance Program and, for the convenience of consumers, is purchased through local insurance agents.

National Flood Insurance Program
The National Flood Insurance Program reimburses homeowners up to $250,000 for covered losses to your home due to a flood. There is a separate coverage limit for personal belongings, including furniture. Brooks can help those wanting higher coverage limits acquire additional coverage through special excess insurance carriers.

• The flood zone you live in
• The elevation of your home
• The year your home was built

Flood insurance policies are annual and cannot be cancelled due to repeat losses.

Don’t get caught without coverage for a flood!
Flood insurance provides many benefits - and much greater personal control - than federal disaster assistance. Many people don’t realize that federal disaster assistance declarations are awarded in less than 50% of flooding incidents. However, with flood insurance, legitimate claims are paid whether or not the President declares your area a disaster. Even when federal disaster assistance is made available, the most common form of assistance is a disaster home loan, which must be repaid with interest.

The issues surrounding flood coverage and water and sewer back-up coverage are very complex. We encourage you to contact Brooks Insurance Agency for advice regarding your specific situation.