The earth’s surface is covered by approximately 71% of water. And, while water is essential to life, it can also be a significant threat to property and life when it arrives as a part of an extreme weather event. Water action, over incomprehensible amounts of time, is so powerful that the Grand Canyon exemplifies the power of water.
What is Flooding?
Flooding is defined as the infiltration of massive amounts of water that exceeds its normal boundaries, however, it differs from water damage. Flood risks differ across the country and are calculated using the variables of a property’s proximity to water (rivers, lakes, oceans), its elevation, and the history of flooding in each location.
The Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) describes risk by issuing detailed flood maps that statistically determine the likelihood of flooding on a given property. FEMA also manages the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which offers the only flood insurance in the country through licensed insurance brokers.
Many Americans need not wonder if Flood Insurance is the right decision for their situation — because it is required as a condition of their property’s mortgage. When a home is free and clear, a homeowner must personally decide if their home and the financial situation warrants the purchase of flood insurance.
Generally speaking, if a property is located in a defined flood zone, it is prudent to carry flood insurance. Floods occur everywhere, the flood maps calculate the potential at a given moment of time.
Florida’s Unique Flooding Risks
Residents of the Sunshine State — from the Emerald Coast to the Space Coast face atypical flood risks because Florida has the longest coastline (1,350-miles) of any U.S. Continental state. Additionally, Florida is an extremely flat state with an ultra-low elevation.
Hurricane Alley
In addition to the other overwhelming flooding factors Florida must face, the state is situated in what is known as Hurricane Alley – a line of warm water near the equator that stretches from Western Africa’s coast to the eastern points of the Southern portion of the U.S., the Gulf of Mexico and Central America. It is not unusual for these massive storms to drop a foot of rain in 24 hours. And, while Florida operates with a Water Management District, the retention ponds can only do so much.
Is Standard Homeowner’s Insurance Coverage Enough?
Homeowner’s Insurance is designed to cover water damage (a broken pipe, etc.), not flooding. Damage from water levels rising is typically excluded. Since flooding is capable of damaging an entire home, it is wise to invest in flood insurance which will allow a homeowner to receive living expenses while the coverage facilitates the rebuilding or repairing of the damaged property.
The Bottom-Line
Florida residents face inherent flood risks that make flood insurance an absolute necessity. From their offices on the Emerald Coast in Florida, Niceville Insurance‘s team of insurance experts can help define your flood risks and protect your home from unanticipated flood events.
Niceville Insurance Agency
Niceville Insurance Agency has been proudly serving our local communities since 1995. Our specialty has been delivering insurance solutions for individuals, families, and businesses throughout Northwest Florida. Contact us for a no hassle insurance quote today!