Spring is just around the corner, bringing warmer weather, blooming flowers – and a higher risk of flooding. As winter thaws occur, homeowners and business owners should think about how to protect their property. Even if you’ve never experienced a flood before, the reality is that flooding can happen anywhere. In fact, 99% of U.S. counties have experienced at least one flood event in the last 20 years or more 40% of flood insurance claims come from properties outside flood plains. Changing weather conditions make flooding more unpredictable than ever. That’s why purchasing proper flood insurance is crucial.
How spring weather increases flood risk
Not only do spring have sunnier days, but they are also the peak season for flooding. Higher temperatures and seasonal storms can create ideal conditions for flooding. Here are some reasons why spring brings a higher risk of flooding:
- Flooding from snowmelt: Rising temperatures lead to rapid snowmelt, which can overwhelm drainage systems and waterways. Heavy spring rains falling on melting snowpack can quickly cause flash flooding in mountainous or northern regions. Melting snow and ice jams can cause rivers to burst their banks without warning.
- Heavy Spring Rains: Spring often brings frequent and heavy rains. After winter, the soil may become saturated or frozen, reducing its ability to absorb water. Sudden downpours can trigger flash flooding as water drains onto roads and low-lying areas faster than it can drain away.
- Storm surges and rising water levels: Even in spring, the coastal areas are not out of balance. Seasonal storms or late-season nor’easters may result in storm surges or unusually high tides. These events, combined with spring tide cycles and already high groundwater levels, can push water inland. Even without a named storm, strong winds and shifting currents in the spring can cause rising water levels that flood coastal properties.
Spring weather can bring surprises even in regions where this is the case appear safe from flooding. Bottom line: Don’t assume that you’re not at risk just because it’s never happened before.
The cost of a flood without insurance
Many people mistakenly assume that their standard home or business insurance policies will cover flood damage – but this is not the case. A typical property insurance policy excludes flooding, meaning that without a specific flood policy, you would have to pay out of pocket for any flood-related repairs or losses.
There is equally a lot at stake for companies. A severe flood can cause your business to be closed for weeks or even months, resulting in significant financial losses from repairs and lost revenue. In fact, about 25% of businesses do not reopen after disasters such as severe flooding. Without flood insurance, a single flood event could jeopardize your livelihood or even close your doors permanently.
For homeowners, a flood can mean costly structural repairs, replacement of destroyed items, and even a loss in the value of your property – all out of pocket. In short, the financial impact of a flood can be devastating if you are uninsured.
How flood insurance protects you
With flood insurance, you don’t have to bear all of the damage caused by flooding alone. Proper flood insurance provides a safety net by covering costs that would otherwise come directly from your savings. This is how the right insurance coverage protects you:
- Structural Damage: Flood insurance can help you finance repairs to your home, office or building caused by rising water. This includes foundations, walls, electrical and plumbing systems, heating/cooling systems, and other structural elements that could be damaged by flooding. Instead of financing a remodel on your own, your policy can help cover these significant costs.
- Personal Property and Business Equipment: Flood insurance can also cover the contents of your home or business. For homeowners, this means furniture, appliances, electronics, clothing and other personal items are destroyed by floodwaters. For businesses, it can be equipment, inventory, and supplies. This coverage ensures you can replace your valuables and get back on your feet more quickly after a flood.
How to Get Flood Insurance
If you’re ready to protect your property this spring, purchasing flood insurance is easy. These policies are available to homeowners, renters and business owners – you don’t have to live in a designated flood risk area to get insurance. Given the unpredictable nature of the weather, everyone should assess their risk of flooding.
By investing in flood insurance, you protect what matters most: your home, your business and your financial stability. The peace of mind of being covered is invaluable, especially as the unpredictable weather of spring approaches. Don’t wait until it’s too late to realize you need coverage. Contact an agent today to explore the flood insurance options available to you. With the right policies in place, you can welcome the warmer weather confidently knowing you’ve taken steps to stay ahead of spring flood risks.
