On May 24th FEMA declared a major disaster in Iowa due to severe storms, tornadoes and flooding. They have amended this ongoing disaster three times. Originally, there were only four counties included in the affected areas. By June 27th, the disaster had been extended to include almost thirty counties.
On June 16th FEMA declared another major disaster in Iowa due to severe storms, flooding, straight-line winds and tornadoes for nine counties in the northwestern corner of the state. Many of you have seen pictures and videos from towns that are struggling from the flooding. One town saw damage to around 40% of homes.
What is flood insurance?
Most of you will look at your home policy declaration and see water backup. This is separate from flood coverage. Water backup applies to water backing up into your home through pipes. Any water that flows into your home from doors, windows, etc. would be where flood coverage comes into play. Flood insurance covers damage to your home and personal property affected.
Do I need flood insurance?
If you live in a high-risk flood area, your mortgage company will most likely tell you that you need flood insurance. Insurance companies also have ways of viewing flood maps and risk levels. They will often times point out if they believe flood insurance is necessary. FEMA uses flood maps to determine the risk levels based on location and data. If you believe that you are at an increased risk for flooding, talk to your agent about coverage. We are able to assist and advise you based on the information provided through mapping.
What do I do for standing water in my home?
Sump pumps are often used for water removal. Experts suggest pumping about 3 feet of water out of your home. Mark the water line using a stick and a sharpie. If you return the next day and the water level has increased, there is still water coming into your home. Repeat this method until the water level remains the same overnight. At this point, the water is no longer coming into your home, and it is time to pump the water out.
Further Resources:
According to their website, the DNR works with communities to establish floodplain management programs. They partner with the National Flood Insurance Program, or NFIP, FEMA, and Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division to address catastrophes, including floods. Both the DNR and Iowa State University Extension have resources dedicated to floodplain mapping and how to respond in case of a flood.
https://www.iowadnr.gov/Portals/idnr/uploads/water/floodplain/nfip_floodresponse.pdf
Get Social