Flood Insurance

Each year, more U.S. properties within floodplains are destroyed by flooding than fire. Changing weather patterns, increased urban development, and the leveling of forests have reduced the land's natural ability to absorb water. As flooding becomes a common occurrence, property owners need to face the facts. Flood damage can happen anytime, no matter where you live.

Flood insurance, which is financially backed by the U.S. Government through the National Flood Insurance Program, is available through Homesite Insurance and the Homesite Insurance Agency. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) through the Federal Emergency Management Agency is the primary provider of flood insurance. The Homesite Insurance Company acts as a "Write-Your-Own" company on behalf of the NFIP. "Write-Your-Own" companies sell and service flood policies and the NFIP pays the claims.

Property owners know a Homeowners policy covers fire damage, but most don't realize that it won't cover flood or mudslide damage. Rising waters and debris can destroy your home, business, and personal belongings within minutes. Most floods don't qualify for federal disaster aid. Only floods that are declared national disasters by the president qualify for federal assistance. This assistance is in the form of a grant averaging less than $2,500, or a federal loan that must be paid back with interest. That's in addition to payments on your existing mortgage loan!

Only flood insurance protects your home and your belongings from damage caused by rising water or mudflow. Flood insurance is available for the value of the structure, minus the land value. Contents coverage is also available, but is optional and must be requested. Even if you've had previous flooding, you can still buy flood insurance. If you've received disaster assistance before, you must first obtain flood insurance to be eligible for future federal relief.

Flood Insurance Puts You in Control.
The average flood policy is only $324 a year* --that's less than $1 a day. Compare that to a typical disaster loan of $50,000, costing more than $300 a month for over 18 years! Flood insurance pays all covered claims even if a federal disaster is not declared. Claims are paid quickly so victims can recover faster. You can even get a partial payment right away to get started. Flood coverage is available up to $250,000 for your home, and up to $100,000 for the contents.

Flood Insurance is Easy to Buy.
Anyone can buy flood insurance if his/her property is located in a community that participates in the National Flood Insurance Program. Homes, condos, apartments, and business structures are all eligible. Even renters may purchase flood insurance for their possessions. Since flood premiums are set by the U.S. government, your rate is the same from any insurer.

*The premium amount shown is based $250,000 of coverage on a home with a basement located in a low to moderate risk area (B, C or X zone as defined by the NFIP).