Do you need flood insurance?

Is my home insured for damage that may result from flooding
caused by a hurricane or other storm?

Not necessarily. Generally, coverage provided by a standard home or business policy does not include damage caused by flooding or mudslides. It is important to note this type of damage could be extremely destructive to your property and without insurance you could be devastated financially.

Is Flood Insurance really necessary?

Call us today at 732-280-2800 to determine if you need flood insurance. It’s important to know that lending institutions/banks may require flood insurance as a condition of securing a mortgage, home improvement loan, home equity loan, commercial loan, etc. Flood insurance also is a prerequisite for receiving federal disaster assistance when property is located in a special hazard area.

It is important to note that not only high-risk areas are prone to flooding. Flooding can occur anytime and anywhere. One-quarter of NFIP claims come from outside high-risk flood areas.

How can I get insurance coverage so I’m protected for flood damage from a natural disaster?

First, give us a call - 732-280-2800 or email us today at ccw@ccwinsurance.com. We have access to comprehensive information and we can help you determine if you need flood insurance. Throughout the United States, more than 20,000 communities participate in the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Flood Insurance Program, which offers flood insurance. An NFIP policy typically includes coverage for: removing contents; sandbagging (to reduce damage); repairing flood damage and rebuilding; clearing away debris and mud; and compensating for personal belongings and business inventories.

Can I buy flood insurance at any time? Yes, but in most cases, there is a 30-day waiting period between the time flood insurance is purchased and the time coverage is in force.

How can I prepare for a catastrophe such as flooding? Along with obtaining flood insurance protection, you should heed storm warnings and follow evacuation procedures such as boarding up windows and storing outside items inside; shutting off utilities; and preparing an emergency kit that contains food and water, a portable can opener, clothing, blankets, flashlights, first-aid supplies and a battery-operated radio.

Also, maintain a current household or business inventory of your property and possessions and keep it in a safe place such as a safe-deposit box. An up-to-date inventory will prove useful when filing your insurance claim. Check out our household inventory checklist to help you along.

 Flood facts

On the eastern coast of the United States, flooding occurs mainly during hurricane season, which runs primarily from June through October.  Hurricanes affect coastal and inland areas. These areas can be inundated by torrential rains that result in widespread flooding. The FEMA  estimates that 75 percent of households located in federally designated special flood hazard areas carry no flood insurance.