As the State of Florida continues to brace for significant flooding throughout the week, Florida Insurance Commissioner David Altmaier is encouraging consumers to take action now to secure flood insurance coverage. For a list of flood insurance writers in Florida, visit this link.
Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis said, “It is never too early to prepare for a tropical weather event. With significant rain forecasted and flooding on the horizon, Floridians need to review their current insurance policies and fully understand their coverages and exclusions so they can prepare accordingly. Now is the time to take action.”
Commissioner Altmaier said, “Flooding can happen any time of year, but the chances increase significantly with hurricanes and tropical storms. As we know from last year’s hurricane season, these systems can bring storm surge and increased rainfall amounts to our state. Having flood insurance in place is critical for homeowners and businesses, and helps our state’s response and recovery efforts.”
A basic homeowners’ insurance policy does not provide coverage for flooding. This coverage must be purchased separately through a private insurance company or the federally-administered National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Florida’s private flood insurance market is growing and there are now 26 insurers offering primary or excess flood insurance coverage. This coverage is usually offered at prices similar to or lower than those of the NFIP, providing more consumer choice and an alternative to the federal program.
Flood insurance coverage can often be purchased directly from a consumer’s existing insurance agent or company. Typically, there is a 30-day waiting period before an NFIP policy takes effect, so it is vital to act before a named storm or other event emerges. For more information about ways to prepare for hurricane season and resources to a variety of fact sheets and tips, please visit OIR’s Hurricane Season Resources site.
