Flood Insurance Is An

Important Safety Net

HARTFORD — With very few exceptions, a household or business needs to get flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Plan, advises Professional Insurance Agents of Connecticut (PIACT) Inc.

When the snow melts, the spring thaw begins. Winter runoff, heavy rains, and water backup due to overloaded drainage systems have caused thousands of dollars of damages to homes and businesses. The 2005 hurricane season showed everyone the severe loss that flooding can cause.

Unfortunately, too many people find out too late that their business, homeowners, or renters insurance policy does not cover flooding. Year after year, flooding is not only more common, it is more devastating.

“Many people don’t realize they are not covered for floods unless they’ve purchased a separate flood insurance policy,” said newly elected PIACT President John DiMatteo, CFP, CCPS “The National Flood Insurance Program offers flood insurance at federally subsidized, low-premium rates, which is available through your independent insurance agent.”

“People in high-risk flood areas are not the only people who need flood insurance,” Mr DiMatteo pointed out. “In fact, approximately one in four of all flood disasters occur in areas with a low to moderate risk of flooding. Keep in mind, flooding can occur any place at any time.”

Mr DiMatteo urges all home and business owners to contact their professional, independent insurance agent to help determine if they need flood insurance.

“There is a 30-day waiting period between the time the flood insurance is purchased and the time the coverage goes into effect,” continued Mr DiMatteo, who stresses that waiting until the next storm warning to purchase flood insurance is dangerous, since coverage probably will not begin in time.

PIACT also offers the following tips to help prepare for a flood: Listen for storm warnings and follow evacuation procedures. If a severe storm is predicted, it’s a good idea to board windows, shut off utilities and store outside items inside to prevent damage. Keep an emergency kit handy as well as food and water, a portable can opener, clothing, blankets, flashlights, extra batteries, first-aid supplies, and a battery-operated radio in case you are left without electricity.

Contact a professional insurance agent to get the coverage necessary to protect your family and your business from the devastation flooding can cause.

PIACT is a trade association representing professional, independent insurance agencies, brokerages and their employees throughout the state.