Flooding May Affect You – Check to See If You Should Have Flood Insurance

DEM Blogger

May 22, 2019

Kentucky and its citizens suffer from floods every year. Many homes and businesses experience damage from heavy rains and rising rivers. It is important to review your insurance policy to see if you are covered for flood damage. Sometimes flood insurance is purchased separately from your insurance agent. It is important to note when the flood coverage begins and what is not covered. Flood insurance may be required if a home is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area.

What is Not Covered?

Most basements or lowest elevated floors are not covered depending on flood zone and date of house construction. Coverage is also limited on enclosed areas under elevated buildings, crawl spaces, and property surrounding the house or building.

Most Insurance Policies Do Not Cover:

• Damage caused by moisture, mildew, or mold that could have been avoided by the owner
• Currency, precious metals and valuable papers (ex. Stock certificates)
• Property and belongings outside of the insured building, such as trees, plants, wells, decks, septic systems, fences, hot tubs, swimming pools
• Living expenses for temporary housing
• Financial losses due to business interruption or loss of property

Flood Preparedness Tips:

• Contact an insurance agent and purchase a policy
• Become confident in your understanding of your policy and of what is covered
• Prepare your house to minimize damage.
• Research the history of flooding in your area
• Business owners can follow: Flood Preparedness Checklist

List of insurance agents and policies from the National Flood Insurance Program website.

Keep in mind, there is typically a 30-day waiting period from the time you purchase your policy to the time it takes effect. There are some exceptions.

If a major flood were to occur and the President declares a major disaster, there is assistance available from the FEMA Individuals and Households Program that will help people secure a safe living space. The program will not duplicate insurance coverage. FEMA program typically assists with repairing life-safety needs including but not limited to: foundation, roof, windows, doors, floors, walls, ceilings, sewage system, heating, A.C., ventilation, electrical, and road access.

Information on the National Flood Insurance Program.

Source: National Flood Insurance Program at www.Floodsmart.gov