Recent Flooding A Good Reminder To Consider Value Of Flood Insurance?
Thirty-Day Count Down for Flood Insurance
Release Date: October 22, 2003
Release Number: R10-04-16
Seattle, WA -- The recent rain and flooding in the Pacific Northwest should be a reminder to consider the value of having flood insurance. This latest event is unusual because October is early for fall flooding. Generally the Pacific Northwest's flood season starts in November and runs through June.
According to FEMA Regional Director John Pennington, it's time for flood insurance policy holders to review their flood insurance policies and consider increasing coverage…and for uninsured homeowners and renters to think seriously about buying flood insurance.
"Our region is prone to a variety of natural disasters, ranging from seasonal flooding and winter storms to wildfires and earthquakes, but flooding is by far our leading cause of disaster-driven property loss," said Pennington. "National flood insurance offers a comprehensive safety net against future flood losses, and pays off whether or not there is a Presidential disaster declaration. But there is a thirty-day waiting period before the coverage takes effect, so do not wait until the water rises."
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policies are available to communities that agree to adopt and enforce sound floodplain management practices, and according to Pennington, virtually every community in the northwest qualifies. "By aggressively managing their floodplains, local officials can guarantee access to affordable coverage, and that's important," said Mark Carey, acting FEMA Regional Mitigation Division Director. "If you already have flood insurance - now is a good time to review your policy for adequate coverage. Keep it current and don't let your policy lapse after a run of good weather."
Carey said that flood insurance covers structural damage and contents for all insurable residential and non-residential buildings. Policies can be purchased from any licensed insurance agent or broker. Maximum coverage for single-family homes is $250,000 for the structure itself, and $100,000 for contents. Renters can also insure their personal belongings for up to $100,000. Businesses can insure buildings for up to $500,000 for the structure, and contents for up to $500,000. "Properties damaged by surface flooding due to clogged storm drains are eligible for flood insurance claims," Carey added.
The NFIP is self-supporting, with all claims and operating expenses paid from policyholder premiums, not tax dollars. For more information about the NFIP, contact your insurance agent, or call toll free: 1-800-427-4661.
Note: Property owners can view flood maps to see if their property is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area either through their local Building and Planning Departments, or on line at www.fema.gov under the button of "Fema Flood Map Store."
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. 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 Citizen Corps, the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Thursday, 23-Oct-2003 14:38:55