Washington, D.C. –U.S. Representative Charles W. Boustany, Jr. urged residents to verify that they have adequate flood insurance as hurricane season begins.

“Citizens need to be proactive in their efforts to protect their property and belongings,” Boustany said.  “One of the best ways to be proactive is to purchase flood insurance so you can provide adequate coverage for your property.  Failure to have flood insurance can have horrific outcomes if flooding does occur.”

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) provides coverage in the event of flooding, something homeowners insurance does not cover.  Because there is a 30 day waiting period before the policy takes effect, it is essential that people purchase this coverage well before a storm threatens Southwestern Louisiana.

If your community participates in NFIP, four different types of flood insurance can be purchased.  These are:

•    Residential Building Coverage – up to $250,000 for single-family, two to four family, and other residential buildings;

•    Commercial Building Coverage – up to $500,000, including small businesses;

•    Contents Coverage – up to $100,000 for contents of residential buildings and up to $500,000 for contents in nonresidential buildings, including small businesses;

•    Renters Coverage – up to $100,000 for contents coverage for renters.

To find out if your community participates in NFIP contact your local building or emergency management official.  For more information on The National Flood Insurance Program call (888) 379-9531 or visit www.floodsmart.gov.