With Hurricane Season beginning next week, Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King wants to express the importance of a flood insurance policy for protecting your family and belongings. These policies are vital for business owners, home owners, and even renters.

“Even if you think flooding is unlikely in your area or you have never experienced a significant flood, whether or not to purchase a flood insurance policy should be a yearly discussion for all Georgia families. If it rains at your house, it can flood at your house,” said Commissioner King. “According to the NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program), one-third of claims come from outside special flood-hazard areas.”

You can purchase up to $250,000 in federally backed flood insurance from the NFIP for your home and up to $500,000 for your business. Some items that are covered in a policy from the NFIP include, but are not limited to: your home and its foundation, electrical and plumbing system, air conditioning unit, furnace, water heater, refrigerator, dishwasher, stove, window blinds, and removal of debris.

If your community participates in the NFIP, a flood insurance policy can be purchased from any state- licensed property and casualty insurance company or agent. Your agent can confirm whether or not flood insurance is available to you and what pricing options you have. Or, you can check the NFIP’s Community Status Book to see if there are policies available for your location.

It is important to keep in mind that a flood insurance policy will not go into effect until 30 days after purchase. So, be sure to plan ahead when considering a flood insurance policy. For estimates on pricing, to rate your risk, or for more information regarding flood insurance policies, you can visit www.FloodSmart.gov or call the NFIP at 1‐888‐379‐9531.