Flood season is on the horizon. Are you ready for it? While flooding can occur during every season, coastal areas are at greater risk for flooding during hurricane season (i.e., May to November), while the Midwest is more at risk in the spring and during heavy summer rains. *

Spring rains and melting snow can bring a variety of problems for homeowners, including flooded basements. It’s important to know that a couple of inches of water can cause thousands of dollars in damage. For example, one inch of floodwater can cause up to $25,000 in damage, according to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Did you know that the cause of the flooding can determine whether the homeowners’ policy will cover the damage? Take note of these key differences between water back up and flood coverage, and why they are both important in the event of water damage to your home.

Flood coverage

Flood insurance covers damage caused by flooding, which is an overflow of water onto land and ground water seeping into the home. Flood coverage is not typically covered by a standard homeowners’ insurance policy and requires a separate policy to cover both the physical structure and inside contents.

Water back up coverage

Water back up addresses damage caused by water backing up into your home from sources other than floods. Here are some common causes:  

• Water backing into the property from blocked drains
• Clogged sewers - When sewers become obstructed, wastewater has nowhere to go
• Malfunctioning sump pumps - Sump pumps that lose power during a storm and fail to redirect water outside the home

Typically, water back up coverage is not automatically included in standard homeowners’ insurance, so you must choose to add it separately. At Anywhere Insurance Agency, we’re here to assist you in obtaining both waters back up and flood coverage. Click here for an appointment to start the process of getting a quote!

*Source: Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

This material is meant for general illustration and/or informational purposes only. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, no representation is made as to its accuracy. The material is not intended to be relied upon as a statement of the law, and is not to be construed as legal, tax or investment advice. You are encouraged to consult your legal, tax or investment professional for specific advice. Not for reproduction.