Spring is here, bringing increased chances of rain and increasing a risk of flooding. Floods are unpredictable and cause billions of dollars in damages, more than any other natural disaster. The safety of your family should be your top priority in the event of a flood therefore, it is important you have a flood preparedness plan. Here are a few other additional reasons why you need a flood plan in place:
Floods can occur at any time.
"April showers bring May flowers", but floods can occur at any time of the year. It can only take one heavy rainstorm to cause serious flooding, resulting in thousands of dollars in damages.
Hurricane Season
Hurricanes and Tropical Storms can produce inches of rain and storm surge, which is a leading cause of flooding. As we saw during the 2017 Hurricane Season, flooding was a leading cause of damage resulting in billions of dollars in losses. After Hurricane Harvey's unprecedented flooding, CoreLogic estimates the total residential (insured and uninsured) flood losses to range between $25 to $37 billion. Hurricane Irma also brought its fair share of flooding damage to Florida and surrounding states, causing $25-$38 billion dollars in residential flood losses, according to CoreLogic.
You do not have to live in a flood zone to experience flood damage.
Just because you have not experienced a flood before, does not mean you never will. In fact, roughly 25% of all flood claims are from areas with a moderate to low risk of flooding. Although Florida is nicknamed the "Sunshine State", we are especially prone to experience flooding. If you would like to learn more about your home's flood risk, contact your agent, or use FEMA's Flood Map Tool.
Developing your flood preparedness plan
Take measures to protect your family, property, and yourself in the event of a flood by considering these tips:
- Have a family evacuation plan.
- Keep an emergency kit full of provisions.
- Secure your valuables and documents in a waterproof container.
- Purchase flood insurance.
Flood coverage is not included in a standard homeowners insurance policy. Edison Insurance Company offers a certified flood endorsement to qualifying policyholders, eliminating the need for a standalone flood insurance policy. Speak with your agent to make sure your home and possessions are covered in the event of a flood.
For more flood preparedness tips, click here.
The safety of you and your family is Edison Insurance Company's top priority. Our mission is to provide quality coverage at competitive rates while providing exceptional service. For more information on homeowners insurance in Florida, or to get a quote, call us at 866-568-8922.
