Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Are You Covered? Flood Insurance Basics.

Well, it's hurricane season once again! But last year it wasn't a hurricane that made headlines here. A bad rain storm dumped approximately 9 inches of rain on the Greater Charleston area. This storm caused serious flooding in different areas stranding cars and damaging homes. This is called "the Lowcountry" for a reason and we do expect to have flooding on occasion in some areas. Buyers often ask me if certain homes are in a "flood zone". But here's the thing, according to local news reports, many of the homes that were flooded in this storm were not in high risk flood zones which begs the question, did these homeowners bother to get flood insurance? Sadly, many did not.

Here's what you need to know about flood insurance...
According to www.floodsmart.gov, the National Flood Insurance website, about 25% of all flood claims come from low to moderate risk areas. Our recent storm would seem to back that up. So no matter where you live, can you really afford to not carry flood insurance? The standard homeowner's policy does not include flood insurance so a separate policy is necessary. You can choose a policy that covers just the building, contents only, or both the building and it's contents. It's not as expensive as you might think with rates preset by FEMA, and if you need it (God forbid), it surely will be worth every penny.

If you live in a low to moderate risk area, you have the option of purchasing flood insurance. Is it a good idea? I would recommend it and just ask those poor folks that I mentioned in the opening of this blog. If you don't purchase the insurance and get into a fix like these folks, you could apply for goverment assistance to get back on your feet, but it will most likely be in the form of a loan and do you really need that on top of your mortgage and other bills as you try to rebuild your life after such an event?

If you are in a high risk or "Special Flood Hazard" area, then federal law requires you to purchase flood insurance and you will not be able to close on your home without it. Here in the Charleston area we have homes that fall into both categories so be sure to ask your real estate agent about the home you are interested in purchasing and then CONFIRM it with your insurance agent prior to entering into a contract. It's also important to note that there is a 30 day waiting period before flood coverage takes effect.

You may also want to see what your insurance company can provide in the way of wind and hail. This coverage can be costly, but you can keep your premiums down by choosing a higher deductible. Putting some money aside to use for your deductible, should you need it, can provide you with greater peace of mind and be a much needed umbrella on that windy, rainy day. Shop around for the best rate and terms, but also be aware that there is a wind pool overseen by the South Carolina Underwriting Association for those that can't find coverage in the regular marketplace.

Finally, I want to briefly mention that you should also investigate earthquake coverage as we actually have a fault-line running through the area. Yes! Here in South Carolina, believe it or not.

The Summerville/Charleston, SC area is a truly beautiful place to call home. Nature has blessed us with beautiful beaches, waterways and a temperate climate. But Mother Nature has a way of reminding us periodically that she is also a force to be reckoned with, so it's best we are prepared. Knowing your insurance options and getting the appropriate coverage is the first step in protecting your home. Talk with an insurance agent for expert advice and to get more details about what coverage and options are best for you.

For more info and additional resources, check out:www.floodsmart.govwww.fema.govwww.dnr.sc.gov/water/flood/www.scwind.com/index.html

Kind Regards,
Maria Pettis,
Realtor, e-PRO
Century 21 Properties Plus, Inc.
(843) 860-3901
MPettis@Century21Properties.com

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