Did you get out this weekend to see the new movie "Noah" starring Russell Crowe?  Noah had a unique way of dealing with an impending Flood, he built a large boat and sailed in it.  Well, most of us do not have that option*, so you may be wondering: does my homeowners insurance cover me for flood?  The answer is NO!

First, let's clear a few things up.  When we are talking about Flood, we are not referring to a burst pipe, water leaking from your sink or an appliance or basement seepage.  You will have to review your homeowners policy to see if you have coverage for those types of water damage.

A Flood means a general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres of normally dry land or of two or more properties (one of which is your property) caused by:

• overflow of inland or tidal waters;
• unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source;
• mudflow (which is defined as a river of liquid and flowing mud on the surface of normally dry land areas).

If you are in a FEMA special flood hazard zone, your mortgage company or lender most likely requires you to have a Flood policy.  If you are not in a special flood zone, you can still buy a policy and you may even qualify for a preferred rate.  Flood policies can start for around $200 a year.  Since most flood losses actually occur in areas that are not considered special flood hazard zones, a preferred risk policy offers a great way to protect your home from the financial devastation of a flood. 

If you would like more information about Floods or Flood Insurance, please give us a call.  We have FEMA flood certified agents here in our office who would be happy to answer your questions. 

*if for some reason, you do have a large boat and intend to sail away in a flood, we also offer boat insurance.