Allstate Reminds Consumers about the Importance of Flood Insurance

March 15, 2011 - PRLog -- Floods are the most common and expensive natural disasters in the Unites States, causing more than $2 billion in property damage every year. This spring – for the third-consecutive year – the National Weather Service once again warned of high or above average flood risks in many areas of the country.  

In recognition of National Flood Safety Awareness Week (March 14-18), Allstate would like to offer consumers some helpful tips to enable them to better prepare and protect themselves and their homes in the event of a flood.

Before a Flood:
  Get a Flood Insurance Policy – Flood coverage typically requires a separate policy available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).  These policies, which require a 30-day waiting period before taking effect, are administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and sold through some insurance companies.

  Install and Maintain a Sump Pump System – Conduct regular tests and consider installing a battery-operated backup in case of a power failure.

  Safeguard Important Documents and Valuables – Store these items on the upper floors of a home or at higher elevations.

During a Flood:
  Listen to Authorities – Pay attention to news reports about evacuations and drinking water restrictions.  If you’re forced to evacuate, only return home when authorities indicate it’s safe to do so.

  Avoid Driving through Floodwaters – Standing water on the roadways may be deeper than it appears, making it much safer to find an alternate route.

After a Flood:
  Inspect the Property – Look for holes in the roof, walls and windows and make an inventory of damaged contents.  Take any necessary steps to prevent further damage.

  Clean and Disinfect – Floodwaters may be contaminated, making it important to thoroughly clean and disinfect affected areas.

“Everyone lives in a flood zone.  In fact, nearly one out of every four claims come from areas considered to be moderate-to-low risk, making flood insurance one of the most worthwhile investments you can make,” said London B. Bradley, Allstate’s West Central Regional Sales Leader.

Interesting FEMA facts about Floods and Flood Insurance:
  The average premium for an NFIP flood insurance policy is $400 per year – or about $1 per day – for approximately $100,000 worth of building coverage.

  A consumer’s home has more than a one-in-four chance of being damaged by a flood during the course of a 30-year mortgage.  

  One inch of flood water in a 1,000 square foot home could cause $10,600 in losses.

Additional information can be found on www.allstate.com and the NFIP’s website.

The Allstate Corporation  is the nation’s largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the “You’re In Good Hands With Allstate®” slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

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