As residents of Florida, we are no strangers to the risks that come with living in a state that is frequently impacted by severe weather. Among the many hazards that Florida residents face, flooding is one of the most common and costly. Unfortunately, a recent study has found that the number of Florida properties at high risk of flooding is much higher than previously thought.
According to the study, there are thousands more Florida properties at high risk of flooding than the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has identified. This means that many Florida residents may be at risk of flood damage without even realizing it. FEMA and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) have been criticized in recent years for not having updated and accurate maps. This can be dangerous for the thousands of clients that are unaware they may be in a high risk flood zone.
So, what can Florida residents do to protect themselves and their homes from the risk of flooding? The first and most important step is to purchase flood insurance. Many homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage, so it’s essential to have a separate flood insurance policy to ensure that you’re protected in the event of a flood.
In addition to purchasing flood insurance, there are a few other steps that Florida residents can take to minimize the risk of flood damage to their homes:
- Elevate your home: If your home is located in a flood zone, elevating your home can be an effective way to reduce the risk of flood damage. This can be an expensive option, but it may be worth the investment if you live in a high-risk area.
- Seal your home: Sealing your home can help to prevent water from entering through cracks or gaps. This can include sealing doors and windows, as well as filling any gaps in the foundation.
- Install flood barriers: Flood barriers can be a great way to prevent water from entering your home. There are a variety of flood barriers available, from sandbags to inflatable barriers, so you can choose the option that best fits your needs and budget.
At EnsureUp, we offer over 14 private flood insurance options as well as the NFIP to help you find the coverage that best fits your needs. Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your home and family from the risk of flood damage. Contact us today at (305) 452-0587 or visit our website at www.floodwiser.com to submit your property for a flood insurance quote in under 3 minutes!