Related To Story METRO ATLANTA FLOODING |
Most Flood Damage May Not Be Covered By Insurance
You Can Purchase Federally-Backed Flood Coverage From Local Agent
POSTED: 2:27 pm EDT September 21,
2009
UPDATED: 5:54 am EDT September 22,
2009
ATLANTA -- State officials said on Monday that they are concerned that most of the damage caused by the rain and flooding may not be covered by insurance.Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine said Monday that standard homeowners policies do not include floods.“As the weather over the past few days has shown, purchasing flood insurance is an important consideration for Georgia consumers, even if you think a flood is unlikely in your area,” Oxendine said in a statement released Monday afternoon. “25 percent of flood claims occur in areas considered medium or low-risk for floods.”Experts said you can purchase flood insurance from a local agent. That coverage is backed by the federal government under the National Flood Insurance Program.Flood insurance is available for up to $250,000 for damage to your home. A standard flood policy will cover the basic structure as well as the furnace, water heater, air conditioner, floor surfaces (carpeting and tile) and debris clean up.For an additional premium, experts said you also may buy flood coverage for up to $100,000 damage to the contents of your home. Coverage is available up to $500,000 for non-residential buildings and their contents.You can obtain more information about flood insurance at www.floodsmart.gov. or by calling 1-800-427-4661.The Better Business Bureau has provided a list of disaster safety tips. Click here to view the list.
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