The Iowa Department of Homeland Security and FEMA have issued a statement encouraging property owners in high-risk and special flood hazard areas to purchase flood insurance. Below is a portion of the release. Find Myths and Facts about flood insurance and other details at this link.
The severe flooding March 12–May 16 affected thousands of Iowa residences and businesses and caused millions of dollars of damage. Floods are the most common and costly natural disasters in the United States.
If you do not carry National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) insurance, now is the time to buy it. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) urges homeowners, renters and business owners to protect their homes and assets from devastating financial loss from flooding before any possible inundation occurs.
Flooding is not limited to high-risk flood areas, or Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). More than 25 percent of flood insurance claims paid are for properties outside SFHAs.
Just an inch of water in an average-sized home can cause more than $26,000 in damage.
The NFIP is administered by FEMA; policies are sold by private insurance agents. The coverage takes effect after a 30-day waiting period – more reason not to delay.
Unlike FEMA assistance, NFIP claim payouts do not require a presidential disaster declaration and can cover damage far in excess of what FEMA help provides.
View full press release at this link.