According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory, flooding may occur in any U.S state or territory. Generally, floods occur due to heavy rains, ocean wave breaks, snow melts, or dam leaks.
Unfortunately, floods have devastating effects on homeowners. For instance, it can damage the internet cable, electric, or telecommunication connections, disrupting communication. In addition, rising floodwaters can significantly destroy the building, personal property, cars, and anything else in a home.
Homeowners in California with a risk of flooding should consider flood insurance to protect them in case of floods.
Flood Insurance Coverage
In general, flood insurance covers structural damage to property and personal assets. Some insurance coverage provides compensation for loss of use and the cost of repairs. Ultimately, it has two broad coverage types: building coverage and content coverage.
Building Coverage
- Plumbing Installations: Following floods, the soil above plumbing lines can absorb water, becoming heavy. The added weight creates stress on outdoor plumbing connections, resulting in cracked pipes. Without flood insurance, a homeowner can incur hefty repair and replacement costs.
- Foundation walls: Floods can destroy a foundation or allow moisture to seep through the cracks. A significant crack or weakened foundation can trigger an eventual building collapse. Fortunately, an insurer can reimburse the repair cost based on your coverage.
- Flooring: Flooding can cause floor damage, especially the floor types installed with glue. In extreme cases, the standing flood water can cause the floor to collapse.
- Electrical Systems: Flooding introduces water into the electrical system, leading to corrosion of some components. In addition, it leaves residual moisture, rendering the system dangerous and unstable. As a result, a homeowner needs the service of a professional to assess, repair, restore, and replace damaged components. It’s essential to procure flooding insurance to cover the loss.
Content Coverage
Content insurance is part of flood insurance that covers loss or damage to items that aren’t part of the structure. It’s worth noting that most flood insurance policies don’t automatically provide content coverage. You should examine whether you need to add this coverage with your insurance professional.
If you live in a flood-prone area, consider requesting a content coverage add-on. Remember, personal assets are also expensive, making a lack of content coverage a costly gamble.
Here is a list of items covered under content coverage:
- Clothing
- Portable electronics like air conditioners, microwaves, dishwashers, or electric cookers
- Carpeting not covered by home insurance
- Artwork
- Furniture
- Toys and gaming equipment
- Washing machine and dryers
A point to note: Some insurance companies offer a provision for alternative accommodation as you restore the home. Even so, the amount varies; therefore, evaluate the limit before accepting the insurance contract.
Talk to an Experienced Flood Insurance Professional
Besides loss, a flooding event endangers the health of your household. Even so, you can mitigate the adverse effects of floods by acquiring flood insurance. At Panorama Insurance Northridge, CA, we offer tailored solutions that match your needs, budget, and risk profile.
Contact us now or call us at 818.600.9179 to get a free quote.
