Flood Insurance Is Available 

Release Date: June 25, 2004
Release Number: 1521-014

» More Information on Louisiana Severe Storms and Flooding

BATON ROUGE, La. -- While disaster recovery assistance programs are important in helping flood survivors get back on their feet, there is no substitute for the broad-ranging benefits of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Flood damage is not covered by homeowners policies but you can protect your home, business, and belongings with flood insurance from the NFIP. It doesn’t matter whether your flood risk is low, medium, or high, you can insure your home for up to $250,000 for the building and $100,000 for your contents. The average flood insurance policy costs a little more than $300 a year for about $100,000 of coverage.

“The cost of flood insurance offers peace of mind at a very low price considering the catastrophe floods can cause,” said State Coordinating Officer Art Jones. “And people need to know that most people in Louisiana are eligible for coverage.”

You can buy NFIP flood insurance from private insurance companies and agents. Owners of manufactured homes are often required to purchase flood insurance that only protects their lender’s interest in the property. But owners of those homes can buy flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program for the full value of their home and its contents. Renters can obtain flood insurance for contents.

People wanting more information on flood insurance should call their insurance agent or call the National Flood Insurance Program toll free at 1-888-CALL-FLOOD, ext. 304 (TTY 1-800-427-5593).

On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.

Last Modified: Friday, 25-Jun-2004 16:43:32