Photo Credit: iStock/djperry
Most homeowners and renters insurance policies do not cover flood damage. On average, 40 percent of National Flood Insurance Program claims occur outside of high-risk flood areas. With increasing annual precipitation in Wisconsin, flood insurance is an important tool to prevent financial vulnerability.
Federal insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program if the community is a member of the national program. Homeowners and renters can purchase a private insurance policy if their agent sells flood coverage. Homeowners and renters are encouraged to talk to their local insurance agent or visit https://www.floodsmart.gov/ to learn more.
The Wisconsin DNR floodplain program manages community enrollment in the National Flood Insurance Program. The staff serves as experts on federal insurance.
“Flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program is one of the tools that builds flood resiliency into our Wisconsin communities,” says Sarah Rafajko. Rafajko is the Wisconsin National Flood Insurance Program coordinator. “Don’t wait until flood waters are rising to explore insurance.”
There is usually a 30-day waiting period before National Flood Insurance Program policies go into effect. Signing up today ensures residents have coverage in place by the time spring showers start to hit Wisconsin.
Additionally, the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance has several resources available to help consumers understand insurance. Find these at https://oci.wi.gov/Pages/Consumers/FloodInsurance.aspx. Find information on mitigating flood risk at https://oci.wi.gov/Pages/Consumers/disasters.aspx.
“One inch of water can cause up to $25,000 in damage, so even small or moderate floods can be financially devastating if you don’t have the right insurance,” says Insurance Commissioner Nathan Houdek. “Whether you rent or own, there is flood insurance coverage available for your needs.”
