Many insurance consumers wrongfully think that their homeowners insurance policy covers flood damage. The truth is that it does not. There is no coverage for flooding within the typical homeowners insurance policy.
Many carriers offer various Flood Coverage add-on’s to provide greater protection to one of your most important assets – your home. Contact your agent and ask about flood options. Nothing beats peace of mind, and having a flood endorsement added to your homeowners policy is a smart move.
We recently had severe flash floods in Southeast Florida; roads were closed, cars were flooded and stranded, and property was damaged. Not only are these flash floods – almost 20” in just a few hours – life threatening, but they can unleash massive damage to homes and personal property. Water will find its way into your home, and lay waste to your valuable possessions.
Flooding is typically defined as “a general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres of normally dry land area or two or more properties (at least one of which is your property) from: Overflow of inland waters, unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source, and mudflows.” Other definitions, in many standard policies, note:
We will not pay for loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by any of the following.
Such loss or damage is excluded regardless of any other cause or event that contributes concurrently or in any sequence to the loss.
(1)Flood, surface water, waves, tides, tidal waves, overflow of any body of water, or their spray, all whether driven by wind or not;
(2)Water which backs up through sewers or drains or which overflows from a sump; or
(3)Water below the surface of the ground, including water which exerts pressure on or seeps or leaks through a building, sidewalk, driveway, foundation, swimming pool or other structure.
While the language may appear complicated, it’s actually very straightforward. In essence, anytime water touches the ground, flooding has occurred. The critical part to understand is that the HO3 or HO6 (or virtually any other homeowners insurance policy) does NOT cover flooding and related damages. As an example, if a tidal wave, caused by a hurricane, tropical storm or other, inundates your home, your homeowners insurance policy will not cover the damage. If rainwater cannot get down the street drains and rushes into your home, destroying your flooring and furniture, that damage will not be covered by your standard homeowners insurance policy.
Edison can assist by providing solutions that work for you and your home. Call your insurance agent to discuss your options. Our promise – fast, fair and friendly – is our motto, and we live by it. We appreciate your business and look forward to serving you.
Keeping your family and home safe and protected is Edison Insurance Company’s number one priority. If you would like to become an Edison policyholder, you can get a quote or call us at 866-568-8922 (option 1) today!
