Flood insurance isn’t only for people who live near the water
Most people aren’t thinking of the potential of floods when they buy a home, but they don’t realize floods can happen even outside of floodplains. There are quite a few misconceptions about flooding and flood insurance. Not only were they are likely to occur, but also how to deal with the damage. We’ll break down a few myths.
Myth – Insurance Coverage
The biggest misconception about flooding is that the damage caused is covered by homeowner’s insurance. It is not. Flood insurance is either a separate policy or an add-on to your current homeowner’s policy.
Myth – Flood Zones
The most important misconception in Florida concerning floods is that they only happen near the water. Because of vulnerability to hurricanes, levels of rainfall and the saturated ground, most of Florida is susceptible to floods. Different areas only have higher levels of risk, but the entire state carries some risk of flooding.
Myth – Floods are only caused by storms
A flood risk few people recognize is that caused by new development in the area. New construction can potentially interrupt water runoff patterns, effectively damming an area and causing water backup where it didn’t previously occur. Homes can also sustain damage from broken water pipes, local sewer problems and other issues that are not the result of natural disasters.
Myth – Damage is damage
Unless you’ve seen the effects of flooding first hand you probably aren’t prepared for what to expect afterward. Repairs are not as simple as allowing the area to dry and then repainting. The first thing you’ll notice is that everything under the depth of the flood water will be coated with a heavy layer of mud. Even if you have the tenacity to clean it up after it seems dry, there is still water trapped in the walls, under the carpet, and under the floor. In order to remove the last moisture and the mold it causes, all of those areas have to be removed and rebuilt.
The price of flood insurance is well worth the peace of mind. The loss of personal items is traumatic enough, there’s no reason to compound that with what is effectively the loss of your home if you don’t have the means to repair or replace it.
