Flood Insurance 101
Hurricanes, big storms, thunder and “weather” is simply a part of being a Floridian. It’s who we are! Being prepared is also a big part of that, and flood insurance is something to understand and be aware of as a homeowner in our state.
NOTE/HURRICANE IAN: If you have flood insurance from FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program and experienced flooding during Hurricane Ian, head over to FloodSmart.gov to learn more about how to file your flood insurance claim!
Florida as a state is of high risk of flooding statewide – it is strongly recommended that ALL homeowners carry flood insurance due to the amount of flood claims alone. Flood insurance covers “losses directly caused by flooding.” Basically, a flood is an excess of water on an area that is normally dry – as in your basement, your floors, your garage. This can be devastating and extremely expensive for numerous reasons. According to FEMA Basement coverage through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is limited. FEMA also notes, “Basement coverage under the Standard Flood Insurance Policy (SFIP) consists of specific building items in a basement and cleanup. Items must be connected to a power source, where appropriate, and/or installed in their functioning location.” [Source: https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/what-does-flood-insurance-cover-basement]
How can you buy flood insurance? First, start by calling your insurance company or calling your local independent agent, who can write flood insurance with the NFIP. According to FEMA, as a homeowner your foundation, electrical and plumbing, finishings, appliances, electronics, personal belongings, and more would be covered.
Coverage limits: $250,000 for the building and $100,000 for the building contents. These are typically purchased separately with separate deductibles. [Source: https://www.floodsmart.gov/types-flood-insurance]
The Dalton Wade Mortgage team notes, “As a lender, we can do a Flood Certification which is based off of the current FEMA Flood Map. If the home is in a flood zone, the buyer has to get flood insurance which is escrowed in the monthly payment. Homeowners can get flood insurance even if they aren’t in a flood zone if they want the piece of mind.”
Thinking about buying or selling a home? You’ve come to the right place! Allow Dalton Wade Real Estate group to be your guide – find an agent ready to assist you, learn about communities and neighborhoods, search for all Florida Real Estate listings, while providing you with an exceptional experience – search www.daltonwade.com