Floods

Consider Buying Separate Flood Insurance

Everyone is at risk of flooding. Many people think if they are not near a body of water they are not at risk of flooding; but floods happen everywhere. And floods can also occur from sources like snowmelt and new development. Some flooding situations develop slowly while others appear with little warning.

These flood safety tips can help you avoid problems related to flooding in your home.

• Avoid building in high-risk flood plain areas to minimize your exposure.
• Elevate your furnace, water heater and other utilities so that they are less likely to be affected in a flood.
• Consider installing “check valves” to prevent water from backing up into your house during a flood.
• Seal your basement walls with waterproof material to help protect your home.
• Pay attention to local news and information sources when the weather is a potential issue.
• If flooding has occurred in your area, follow some basic safety advice:
• Be extremely careful when walking through water that’s flowing. You can use a stick to check the ground as you walk.
• Don’t drive your car in a flooded area. You’re at risk of being swept away. Get out of the car and climb to higher ground.
• Be aware that the flood water may have been contaminated by sewage, gasoline or chemicals.

Flood Insurance Facts

Flood-related losses are not usually covered under a homeowner’s insurance policy. So, it’s important to consider buying flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which makes federally backed flood insurance available to both consumers and businesses.

Flood coverage is available to all homeowners and businesses as long as your community participates in the NFIP; that includes residents in high risk zones. As a participating company in the program, The Hartford has been offering flood insurance coverage to customers for more than two decades.

Since costs for flood insurance are set by the federal government, all companies use the same rates to determine the cost for protection. Policyholders have the added security of knowing that this insurance is backed by the federal government.

To find out more about the National Flood Insurance Program, visit www.FloodSmart.gov. To submit a claim, call 800.759.8656.