What Makes Flood Policy Worth It

As warm weather approaches, it's exciting to think about all the newness spring can bring! New grass, leaves, wardrobe, sports, and even sunshine! But what other newness can spring bring? Flooding. With the snow and ice banks disappearing, there is the potential that your home could fall victim to a flood. Let's dive into some facts about flood insurance for the upcoming season.

Pretty much every home is vulnerable when it comes to flooding - not just those in "high-risk" areas. Statistically, 25% of flood claims come from "low-risk" zones. Despite this risk, nearly all home insurance policies exclude flood damage, meaning you'd need a separate flood policy to ensure coverage. The good news? We can help! Just keep in mind that there is a 30-day waiting period for new flood policies, so it's best to act sooner rather than later.

What makes a flood policy worth it? What's even covered? A flood policy can cover the following: 

• The building plus its foundation
• The equipment that services the building (such as central air, furnaces, and water heaters)
• Permanently installed carpet (as long as it isn't in the basement)
• Appliances (such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and stoves)
• Washers, dryers, and food freezers - along with their contents - can be covered under a contents policy.

Another crucial reason to consider flood insurance is the financial protection it provides. Even a few inches of water in your home can lead to thousands of dollars in damage, and without coverage, those costs fall entirely on you. Federal disaster assistance, if available, typically comes in the form of low-interest loans that must be repaid, whereas a flood insurance policy provides actual coverage for your losses.

By securing a policy now, you're ensuring that your home and belongings are protected when unexpected flooding occurs.

Beyond financial security, flood insurance offers peace of mind. With the unpredictable nature of Wisconsin's weather, heavy rains and rapid snowmelt can cause flash floods with little warning. Knowing you have coverage in place means you won't have to scramble for solutions if your home sustains flood damage.

Plus, since flood insurance is backed by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and private insurers, you can trust that your policy is reliable and designed to help you recover quickly.

Lastly, flood insurance isn't just for homeowners - renters and business owners can benefit as well. If you rent, your landlord's insurance won't cover your personal belongings in the event of a flood. A separate contents-only policy can ensure your valuables, electronics, and furniture are protected. For business owners, flood coverage can mean the difference between a temporary setback and a devastating loss. No matter your situation, flood insurance is a smart investment in protecting what matters most.