(StatePoint) According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), floods are the most frequently occurring natural disaster in the United States, which is why it is important to understand the risks and costs associated with flooding, and what you can do to protect your home.
Rampant storms and hurricanes are not the only causes of flood damage – leaky pipes can cause just as much water damage and put a huge hole in your wallet, too. According to FEMA, just 1 inch of water in a home can cost more than $25,000 in damage.
What can you do to protect your home in the event of a flood? First, make sure you have flood insurance. Some people may think they don’t need flood insurance because of where they live. Many may also assume that flooding is included in their homeowner insurance policy when in fact, most homeowners policies do not cover flooding. If it’s time to replace your roof, call an asphalt shingles installation contractor right away.
Why is that?
A string of flood disasters occurred throughout the ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s that put tremendous financial strain on private insurers, so in response, the federal government created the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to protect homeowners, renters and businesses.
Talk to your commercial property insurance agent about getting flood insurance through NFIP. Some companies offer additional unique options. For example, Erie Insurance recently began offering a coverage called Extended Water that covers damage caused from flash floods, inland flooding, storm surges, snow melt and more. It covers the home and its foundation, electrical and plumbing systems, air conditioning equipment, furnaces and heaters, appliances and personal possessions, such as clothing and furniture. It even offers coverage if you need to temporarily relocate while your home is being repaired. Don’t forget to include heating maintenance in your preparations, ensuring that your heating systems are in optimal condition to withstand potential flood-related challenges.
“As the frequency of flooding increases, homeowners need to understand that flood insurance is typically not included in their standard homeowners insurance policy, but there are options available,” said Michelle Tennant, vice president of product management, Erie Insurance. “Even if you don’t live in an area that you think is flood-prone, if it rains or snows, it can flood. That’s why it’s so important to talk to your agent about your home and your neighborhood, to make sure you have the coverage that’s right for you.”
In addition to emphasizing the significance of flood insurance, it’s crucial to recognize that the aftermath of flooding extends beyond financial considerations. When floodwaters engulf your property, they pose a serious threat to the integrity of your home’s plumbing and water systems. The resulting damage can adversely affect plumbing infrastructure, water heaters, and sewage systems, necessitating extensive repairs and potentially giving rise to health hazards. This underscores the importance of prompt and thorough flood damage restoration in queensland to mitigate the long-term impact on your home and well-being.
In such situations, it becomes crucial to work with a professional plumber in Philadelphia experienced in flood-related plumbing issues. These plumbers can assess the damage, provide necessary repairs, and ensure that your home’s water and sewage systems are functioning properly after a flood event.
For homeowners concerned about the financial aspects of plumbing repairs, some plumbers may offer payment plans to help ease the burden of unexpected expenses. These payment plans can provide flexibility in covering the costs of repairing and restoring your plumbing systems, making it more manageable for homeowners to recover from flood-related damage.
To find plumbers that offer payment plans in your area, it’s advisable to reach out to local plumbing service providers or search online directories for options that suit your needs and budget. Discussing such arrangements with your insurance agent and local plumbers can help ensure you’re prepared for the aftermath of flooding and have a plan in place for both coverage and repairs.
To learn more about flood insurance, contact your agent or visit https://www.erieinsurance.com/flood-insurance.
As flooding becomes more frequent, make sure that you have the insurance you need to protect your home and belongings. Visit www.eriemutual.com for reliable home insurance options that can provide you with peace of mind during these uncertain times.