Many homeowners do not know that their homeowners’ insurance does not cover flood damage. With nearly 20 percent of flood claims from areas that are considered low-risk regions it highlights the need for owners to discuss with their agent the inclusion of a flood policy for their protection.

Flood insurance is designed to cover damage to property and loss of possessions due to flood. It only requires a few inches of water to cause tremendous damage to a home. This can be in the form of heavy rains, storm surge, compromised storm drains, and more.

What Does Flood Insurance Cover?

Flood insurance will typically cover the building and its foundation as well as personal property within the building that is affected. This includes:

• electrical system
• plumbing
• water heater, furnace, and central air conditioning
• appliances such as a refrigerator, freezer, stove, dishwasher, clothes washer and dryer, microwave oven, and portable air conditioner
• food contained in refrigerator or freezer at the time of the event
• carpeting
• wall paneling, custom bookcases, cabinets, and wallboard
• window blinds and curtains
• detached garage
• removal of debris
• specified valuables such as artwork and furs

What Is Not Covered?

Not everything will be covered by a flood policy, exclusions in a policy often include items such as:

• damages caused by mold, mildew or moisture as the result of negligence on the part of the owner
• paper money, stock certificates, and precious metals
• belongings and property located outside the dwelling. This includes a septic tank, deck or patio, hot tub or pool, fence, water well, landscaping and hardscaping features, and detached buildings
• temporary housing expenses
• loss as a result of being unable to work or use property location
• motor vehicles and their parts

Coverage Options

It is important that a homeowner understand fully what is covered by their flood insurance. An agent will be able to review thoroughly the policy and its limitations, often being able to suggest an alternative policy that will provide better coverage or give options that will enable the coverage of specific elements of the property, such as a detached building.