Protecting Your Home From Spring Showers

Spring has sprung! It is a sign of regrowth and the hopeful warmer temperatures, but with a new season comes new risks. Even with Spring preparation, the melting snow and heavy rains can cause uncontrolled amounts of water that can lead to flooding. The first thing to know is the difference between water back up and flooding.

Standard homeowners policies exclude water damage caused by flooding. Flooding is defined by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) as a “general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres of normally dry land area or two or more properties.” This can be caused by an overflow of rivers or lakes, melting snow, or excessive rainfall. It occurs when water enters your home through windows, doors, or the foundation.

Flood coverage can be purchased separately through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

 THINGS TO KNOW:

• You can buy flood insurance even if you are not in a flood zone
• 30 day waiting period before coverage goes into effect
• Water entering your home through a basement window is considered floodwaters

Many of our insurance companies offer supplemental coverages to make sure you are properly covered when April showers bring more than just May flowers. Water back up occurs when water outside of your plumbing system enters through sewers and drains, which enters into and overflows from within a sump pump, well, or a system designed to remove subsurface water.

PREVENTION OF WATER DAMAGE IN YOUR HOME:

• Look for, and seal, any cracks in your foundation
• Install a sump pump in your basement to pump out excess water
• Test your sump pump regularly to ensure it is functioning properly
• Install a battery-powered backup sump pump or a water detection alarm system
• Clean gutters and downspouts to keep clear of debris
• Properly seal your windows or install window well covers

Some of our carriers offer optional Inland Flood Coverage on the current homeowner's policy. This coverage is designed for the policyholder in low-to-moderate flood zones. An Inland Flood is caused when:

• Inland waters, such as rivers or streams, overflow and partially or completely cover the normally dry land
• Rapid rain accumulation, runoff or melting snow that does not drain or soak into the ground
• Water carriers mud and results in a mudflow

WHAT DOES INLAND FLOOD COVER?

• Building
• Contents (including items stored in the basement)
• Additional living expenses
• Debris removal
• Property relocation to a safe area

If you have concerns about water back up and flood damage, contact your insurance advisor today to verify that you have the proper coverage. Do not let flooding define your spring-cleaning this season.