Top 10 Flood Facts You Need to Know

Did you know that every state in the U.S. experienced some type of flooding or flash flood within the past five years? I didn't!

It just goes to show that even homeowners who do not live near a body of water can be exposed to costly and dangerous flood risks. Even where it's least expected, a heavy rain, severe thunderstorm, or snow melting from the mountaintops hundreds of miles away can be enough to make flood waters rise. With that, many people are under the impression that insurance for flooding is included in their standard homeowner's policy; however, unless a homeowner has purchased separate coverage or added it to their existing policy, flood damages are likely not covered.

Here are some more interesting flood facts that might take you by surprise - and if they do, imagine how surprising and valuable these facts may be to a current or prospective client!

Top 10 Flood Facts 2015

• Floods are the #1 natural disaster in the United States
• People outside of mapped high-risk flood areas receive 1/3 of Federal Disaster Assistance for flooding
• A car can easily be carried away by just two feet of rushing water
• Flash floods often bring walls of water 10 to 15 feet high
• In high-risk areas, there is at least a 1 in 4 chance of flooding during a 30-year mortgage, and it's more likely that a home in a high-risk area will be damaged by a flood than a fire
• Most homeowner's insurance does not cover flood damage
• Hurricanes, winter storms and snowmelt are common - but often overlooked - causes of flooding
• In most cases, it takes 30 days after purchase for a flood insurance policy to take effect - making it crucial to apply for coverage well before the next flood season approaches
• New land development can increase flood risk, especially if the construction changes natural runoff paths
• From 2005 to 2014, total flood insurance claims averaged more than $3.5 billion per year

Cheryl Gleason
J.M. Wilson