PROPERTY OWNERS URGED TO BUY FLOOD INSURANCE

Property owners should act now to buy flood insurance because saturated ground conditions caused by heavy spring rain could dramatically increase the potential for flooding, even in normally low flood risk areas, the New York State Insurance Department said.

"Many people are unaware that most homeowners insurance policies do not protect them against flood damage. It makes sense for people to review their insurance coverage and purchase flood insurance now if they haven’t already done so,” said Superintendent Eric Dinallo.

There is a 30-day waiting period before a new flood insurance policy goes into effect, so it is important to act now, Superintendent Dinallo said. Property owners, renters and business owners may purchase flood insurance.

Low-cost flood insurance is available under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), a federally-backed program managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Under the program, coverage may be purchased for most buildings as long as the property is located in a community that participates in the NFIP. Most of the communities in New York State participate.

According to FEMA, flood insurance is reasonably priced and there are numerous options for both residential and non-residential properties. For example, a homeowner in a low-to-moderate risk area can purchase a minimum of $20,000 building and $8,000 content coverage for as little as $112 a year.

More information, including a list of NFIP communities participating, can be found on the FEMA website, www.floodsmart.gov, or by contacting a property insurance agent.