More than 20 Percent of Flood Insurance Claims have been for Properties in Low to Moderate Risk Flood Zones
David Maurstad, Chief Executive of the National Flood Insurance Program, FEMA
(Washington, D.C., Monday, August 27, 2018) – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is urging residents to act now to prepare their homes and families for potential flash flooding due to heavy summer rains.
Below you’ll find anecdotes and statistics highlighting the reality of flooding and how it can impact residents in your city:
- Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States and all communities are at risk.
- You don’t need to live in a high-risk flood zone to experience flooding. In fact, more than 20 percent of flood insurance claims have been for properties in low- to moderate-risk flood zones.
- Purchasing flood insurance is one of the most important steps residents can take to protect the lives they’ve built.
- Many residents aren’t aware that homeowners and renters insurance don’t cover flood damage.
- It can take up to 30 days for a policy to go into effect. That’s why it’s important for residents to act quickly.
- To learn more about flood insurance and how to prepare for floods, visit FloodSmart.gov or contact your insurance agent.
It’s important to purchase a policy before a flooding event occurs, since it can typically take up to 30 days to go into effect. If you wait to purchase a policy until after a flood event occurs, your property won’t be protected from the damage caused by that flood event. And remember, most homeowners and renters insurance do not cover flood damage.
If you’re interested in purchasing flood insurance, your homeowners, renters, or business insurance agent may be able to help you. You can also reach the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Help Center for questions about flood insurance at 1-800-427-4661.
For more information on how to get prepare for floods and to learn more about flood insurance, visit FloodSmart.gov or contact your insurance agent.