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2018-11-27
By: Denise Koslowsky
With all the rain and the abundance of hurricanes and tropical storms we’ve been faced with this year, Advocate Brokerage feels like we need to share some truths with you about flood insurance. Below are a few assumptions people make about flood insurance and what you need to know.
I have homeowners insurance so I’m covered.
What you need to know…
Homeowner policies do not offer protection from flooding. If a storm occurs it may cover the damage from heavy winds but not the damage from water. (If you have water damage due to a sump pump failure or a burst pipe, you may have coverage).
I don’t live in a flood zone so I don’t need Flood Insurance.
What you need to know…
Floods can happen anywhere. If it rains where you live….it can flood where you live. If you live in an urban or developing area with lots of new construction you should keep in mind that impervious surfaces like parking lots and roadways don’t soak up rainwater, it just sends it somewhere else…like into your homes. Technically everyone lives in a flood zone and it makes sense to protect your home. Advocate Brokerage’s partnerships with high end carriers which allow us to offer private flood insurance that is unavailable from mass market carriers.
I’m not designated as a flood zone, I can’t get insurance.
What you need to know…
Yes, you can! An open dialog with your insurance broker can help you be aware of all the options available to you. We will obsess until we find the perfect coverage for your specific situation. We can help you determine how your property is designated and what that means in terms of the best coverage available and the rates that would apply.
A flood won’t cause much damage, I’m sure I’ll be ok.
What you need to know…
As little as one inch of water can cause about $25,000 in damage. It is much more costly than most people think. Private flood insurance from one of Advocate Brokerage’s elite insurance carriers is worth considering, no matter where you live!
I’ll just wait until I hear about a storm heading my way
What you need to know…
Some flood insurance policies have 30-day waiting periods before the coverage can begin. If you think you can wait until you hear about a storm to purchase coverage it will be too late. It is much better to take care of it now.
I have coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program, I’m good.
What you need to know…
You may not be, the NFIP has strict fixed limits on coverage. In many cases the coverage is not adequate to take care of the damage done in most homes. The contents coverage is also inadequate and does not cover furnishings, floor coverings, carpets, media systems or items in your basement if the basement is below grade.
The bottom line, what you really need to know…
Is that Advocate Brokerage encourages you to PURCHASE FLOOD INSURANCE FROM A PRIVATE CARRIER AND HOPE YOU NEVER NEED IT. We would be happy to review your particular situation and come up with a solution that best fits your needs.
