Does Flood Insurance Cover Storm Surge
People invest their time and money in creating a safe place for their families. To do so, we often work long hours to make our homes productive, but the value of those homes can disappear when damaged or destroyed by storm surge. Flood insurance is designed to help people recover from floods caused by storms and other natural disasters. You must purchase flood insurance for your home, either from a private insurer or through the National Flood Insurance Program, if it is at risk of flooding.
What Are Storm Surges?
Storm surge is defined as the rise in sea level caused by a storm alone. The most frequent occurrence of storm surges is during a hurricane. When a tropical cyclone makes landfall, its powerful winds push water toward the coastline. Flood insurance covers damage caused by storm surges but is not included in a standard homeowner’s policy. You should strongly consider purchasing flood insurance if you live near the coast.
What Exactly Is Flood Insurance?
Flood insurance is a sort of property insurance that protects a home from damages caused by water damage, specifically flooding. Heavy rain or persistent rainfall, melting snow, coastal storm surges, clogged storm drainage systems, or the failure of levee dams can all lead to flooding.
What Is Not Covered By Flood Insurance?
Most storm surge damage is covered by flood insurance, but there are several instances in which it is not. These include flooding caused by internal issues rather than exterior ones, such as broken pipes. Your homeowner’s insurance policy should cover internal damage. Your flood insurance will not cover the majority of flooding caused by a storm surge or other forms of flooding if your basement is located in a low-lying area. The basement’s structural damage, such as drywall and electrical work, may be covered by the flood insurance policy, but the personal belongings stored there, except for a washer and dryer and food freezers, are not.
Insurers also consider the legal definition of flooding, which typically refers to flooding that affects multiple properties or at least two acres. The damage caused by mildew and mold is not covered by flood insurance. In contrast to homeowner’s insurance, flood insurance does not cover living expenses if a home is uninhabitable and does not cover damage to vehicles stored in a garage. If you have collision and comprehensive vehicle coverage, consider reviewing your auto insurance coverage in case of such an incident.
Conclusion
Flood insurance will cover damage caused by storm surges. The amount of coverage you receive will depend on how much property damage you have and the level of flood insurance you purchased. At Pelican Insurance Agency, we can help you find the right flood insurance policy that fits your needs. Our team of agents will walk you through the process, ensuring you get the coverage you need at the right price for your budget. If you have any concerns or queries, please feel free to reach out. We’re here to help!