Tips on flood insurance
as posted at www.latimes.com
October 10, 2009
Flood insurance tips
* Contact your insurance agent to determine what exactly your current homeowner insurance policies cover and whether they're up to date, then assess whether flood insurance is necessary.
* If you need flood insurance, act fast. Policies usually go into effect 30 days after purchase, and the winter rainy season is not far away.
* Ask whether your insurer participates in the National Flood Insurance Program. Or call (888) 379-9531 or visit www.floodsmart.gov. Cost is determined by a region's flood risk and the age and type of the structure. In low-hazard areas, ask about the discounted Preferred Risk program.
* If you want extra protection on top of the federal program, ask your insurer about supplemental flood coverage or all-inclusive coverage from other sources.
* If you have flood insurance, double-check -- before the rains come -- what is covered, what is not and what information you would need to make claims.
* For other tips on flood insurance claims, visit United Policyholders at www.unitedpolicyholders.org and click on "Claim Tips" and then "Flood" in the left-hand bar.
Source: California Department of Insurance, Times research
