Standard homeowners policies generally cover water damage from sources inside the home – like a burst pipe. But those policies typically exclude damage from water sources outside the home – like overflowing streams inundating a basement. That’s where flood insurance can help.
Understanding your flooding risk
A “flood” doesn’t result only from a natural disaster. It typically includes water from
any external source that makes its way into your home. Flood damage isn’t always
tied to widespread extreme weather events such as named storms. It could include
water coming into your home from a variety of external localized sources – like
rainwater runoff that accumulates too quickly.
Obvious risks:
• Living near the coast
• Home in a flood zone
• Located somewhere with heavy rain
Homes may also be at risk for flooding if:
• There is construction or development in your neighborhood
• Your property or neighborhood is mostly pavement
• Your home is on an incline
• You don’t live at the highest point in your area
Even if your don’t live near water, protecting their home from unexpected flooding is important.
A homeowner’s policy isn’t enough, which is why we provide the added protection they need with a separate flood policy.
Sources:
* Fema.gov
**FEMA Estimated Flood Loss Potential
***National Insurance Commissioners Association. "Flood Insurance Basics"
† Chubb Personal Risk Services Flood Claims since 2014
Chubb Flood Insurance brochure
Rebuttals to common myths about flood insurance
Chubb vs NFIP coverage comparison
10 reasons to consider Chubb Flood Insurance
What has claims seen lately - Flood Edition
Flood DIY client cross-sell
Flood claims story