Many conditions can result in flooding: heavy rains, springtime thawing, and hurricanes are common causes. While some areas are more vulnerable to flooding than others, a flood can happen anytime, anywhere. According to government research, floods are America’s #1 natural disaster. Homeowners should be prepared for the worst, and preparedness involves developing a family plan and learning about flood insurance in Lancaster PA.
Flood Insurance Protects Homeowners from Losses Related to Floods
Standard homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover damage related to floods. Because a flood can happen anywhere, all homeowners should consider buying separate coverage through the NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program). However, not all understand the importance of flood insurance, and many mistakenly believe that homeowners’ policies cover flood damage. Unfortunately, these people typically don’t learn the truth until it’s too late.
Mandatory Flood Insurance in Higher-Risk Areas
Flood insurance costs vary depending on the level of coverage and the property’s vulnerability to flooding. The NFIP has flooding risk maps that can help homeowners identify their area’s risk. If the home is in a higher-risk area and it has a mortgage from a federally insured or regulated lender, flood insurance is legally required. Flood insurance is not mandatory in low-to-moderate-risk areas, but lenders may require it at any time.
Protecting a Home Against Floods
There are other steps for homeowners to take to protect their families and property from flooding. Below are some tips to consider:
* Ensure that the yard’s slope directs flood waters away from the home.
* Keep gutters, downspouts, and drains debris-free, and extend the downspouts away from the home.
* Hire an electrician to raise all electrical outlets to at least one foot above projected flood levels for the area.
* Put together an emergency plan and an evacuation kit that includes the family’s important documents
While homeowners can buy Flood Insurance in Lancaster PA through the NFIP’s program, these policies are administered and sold by private insurers. Susquehanna Insurance Management Ltd can tell the homeowner about their flood insurance options. Most flood policies do not take effect for thirty days after purchase, and it’s important to not wait until storm season to buy coverage. The sooner coverage is bought, the more protected the home and family will be.
