Flood Insurance
Shield Your Home from Water Damage
Hurricane Katrina caused the largest flood related disaster in the history of the United States. As a result, insurance policy holders were more confused than ever about the coverage their policies provided. Lawsuits have been filed and people are up in arms because flood is not a part of typical homeowners’ policies. Subsequently, state departments of insurance have begun to require flood insurance training in an unprecedented manner.
Flood insurance provides financial protection against damage caused by rising water, overflowing rivers, heavy rain, or storm surges. Unlike standard homeowners or property insurance, which usually excludes flood-related damage, flood insurance helps cover the cost to repair or replace your home, personal belongings, and in some cases, the structure’s foundation, electrical systems, and appliances.
Floods can happen anywhere, not just in high-risk areas, and even a few inches of water can cause thousands of dollars in damage. Without flood insurance, homeowners and businesses would bear the full cost of repairs, which can be financially devastating. Essentially, it’s a safety net that ensures you can recover and rebuild after an unexpected flood.
What is Considered a Flood?
In a flood insurance policy, a flood is considered a general and temporary condition in which normally dry land becomes partially or completely submerged. This applies to situations affecting two or more acres of land or two or more properties, one of which must be your property. Flooding can occur from several sources, including:
- Overflow of inland or tidal waters – When rivers, lakes, or oceans rise beyond their normal levels and spill over onto surrounding land.
- Unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface water – Heavy rainfall, stormwater, or sudden snowmelt can create water runoff that floods areas not normally underwater.
- Mudflow – The sudden movement of water-saturated earth or debris down a slope, often triggered by heavy rain or rapid snowmelt, which can damage property and land.
Looking for more information?
Call or visit our office in Gretna, LA today for more on what you need for your flood insurance quote.