Flood! Mother Nature puts us all at risk
We don’t have to live in New Orleans for our community to face the threat of flooding. Why? Flooding is a natural disaster that occurs in all 50 states.
Your home doesn’t need to be submerged up to the rooftop to sustain significant damage. Consider the impact that just a few inches of water would have on your carpets, cabinets, appliances and other belongings. And don’t underestimate the chances of being a flood victim. During the course of a 30-year mortgage, homes in a high-risk area are three times more likely to be damaged by flood than by fire. In fact, about 25 percent of all Flood claims paid are for policies in low- to moderate-risk communities.
Obviously, no one can stop a flood. But here are a few steps you can take to limit the damage and out-of-pocket costs:
• Get Flood insurance. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that your Homeowners policy provides coverage for flooding, it doesn’t. You need a separate Flood policy. You don’t have to be in an area where Flood insurance is required to be eligible for it. If your community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program, you can purchase Flood insurance, and you may qualify for a Preferred Risk policy with lower rates. That’s where I come in. Call me and we’ll take a look at whether you’re exposed, and then you can decide what to do about it. Be aware that a Flood policy doesn’t take effect until 30 days after purchase, so don’t wait for floodwaters to rise.
• Elevate. Get a licensed electrician to take a look at the electric switchbox, outlets and switches to see if they can be elevated at least 12 inches above the projected flood elevation for your home. Ditto for your washer and dryer — you may be able to elevate them on masonry or pressure-treated lumber or move them to a higher floor. If you’re planning to remodel, ask your licensed contractor about relocating or elevating your furnace and water heater.
• Have an emergency plan.Get your emergency supplies ready — for example, flashlights, batteries, portable radio, nonperishable food and water. Make sure family members know what to do and how to communicate if a flood is imminent or if you have to evacuate.
For more information on floods, go to www.floodcmart.gov. And call me; we’ll review your coverage, and you can make sure that you’re covered in case of flood.
