How to determine if you need flood coverage.

Too many people assume that if their home is not in a flood zone, their homeowners’ policy will pick up the tab if flood damage occurs. This is not the case. In fact, most standard homeowner policies don’t include flood coverage. So how do you determine whether you need it?

For a preliminary assessment, go to www.floodsmart.gov and enter your address information in the flood risk profile. The level of risk is determined by your property's location on your community's flood map. The lower the degree of risk, the lower the flood insurance premium.

However, keep in mind it doesn’t always take a coastal disaster or being in a high risk zone to bring flood damage your way. Excessive rain, poor drainage systems, broken water mains and rapid snowmelt could all lead to flooding. In fact, according to the National Flood Insurance Program, nearly 25% of flood insurance claims come from moderate to low risk areas. Therefore, even if your home is not in a high risk location, you may still want to consider purchasing flood insurance as a precaution.

Foremost® can help.

If you choose to purchase your National Flood Insurance Program policy through Foremost, I can help make sure that your home and its contents have the coverage you want in the event of a flood.

Not sure what your policy provides? Call me to discuss your coverage and find out more about a flood policy through Foremost. Or for more information on flood coverage, visit the following websites:

·         www.floodsmart.gov

·         www.fema.gov

·         www.nationalfloodinsurance.com

Product availability is based on authority and all products may not be available in all areas.

This does not constitute legal advice. For a complete list of the specific landlord and tenant laws in your state visit www.landlordassociation.org/statelaws.html, or for legal advice, speak with a real estate attorney.

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