Preparing for a Flood...

Even if you don’t live in a flood zone, it is still possible you could be affected by flood damage. Floods are more common that most may think. The majority of natural disasters in the U.S. involve flood damage and a standard homeowners policy will not cover claims due to many types of water intrusion in the home including damaging water levels due to storms, hurricanes, and even melting snow.

Many mistakenly believe that if a devastating flood was to strike their area the government would step in and help. In some cases federal disaster assistance is available to communities after a qualifying event, but only if the President declares the area a disaster. And if an area is declared a disaster, funds that become available to homeowners and renters, in most cases are loans that need to be repaid. Getting flood insurance coverage will cover your property regardless if your area is declared a disaster or not.

Planning for a flood is best done in advance-which means before any disaster is even possible. Preparing your home and family for a possible water intrusion problem is a 2 step process:

Step 1: Safeguarding Your Family and Personal Property

• Keep an inventory of your personal property with lists, serial numbers, video tapes, and pictures
• Keep insurance documents and other important papers in a safe place where flood water cannot destroy them
• Make a safe and separate area that can be removed quickly for treasured items such as photos and heirlooms
• Know how to shut off your home utilities if you need to leave your home
• Be aware of any outdoor items that would need to be secured or brought inside so they would not float away
• Keep warm blankets, water, food (canned with a can opener), and a first aid kit in your vehicle incase you need to leave
• Stock up on clean drinking water since it can become contaminated during major flooding
• Teach your family what to do in case of an emergency such as having a meeting place if you get separated

Step 2: Making Sure You Are Adequately Covered by Insurance

• Check with your insurance company to see what flood or water damage coverage you currently have
• Find out about what flood insurance is available for your area
• When purchasing a flood insurance policy be aware of policy limits, coverages, and waiting periods
• If you already have flood insurance take the time to understand how to file a claim
• Learn more about flood insurance from the Official Site of the National Flood Insurance Program

* By Bobby Sage, About.com Guide