Flooding is a coastal threat for many Floridians. During hurricane season, approximately 12 tropical storms form over the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, which can cause significant property damage for residents. Unfortunately, many people think their homeowners insurance will cover damage sustained during a hurricane or other flooding event, but homeowners insurance doesn’t insure against floods. Residents must purchase separate flood insurance for flood protection.  

What Is Flood Insurance? 
Flood insurance protects you and your home from the destruction and financial devastation caused by a flood. Typically, flood insurance provides coverage for: 

• Electrical and plumbing systems
• Flood debris cleanup
• Furnace, water heater and central air conditioning
• Structural damage 

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) underwrites most flood insurance plans. Usually, you can purchase NFIP plans both through major insurers and the NFIP Direct system.  

NFIP plans must comply with standards established by federal law. There are two types of coverage: structure insurance, which protects your home, and contents coverage, which covers your belongings. There may also be coverage for debris removal costs, loss avoidance and cost of compliance. At Mr. Auto Insurance, we can help you explore your insurance options. 

As a Florida homeowner, you may be required to purchase flood insurance if:  

• You live in a designated high-risk flood zone and have a mortgage backed by a federally-insured lender.
• Your lender requires you to have flood insurance regardless of whether you live in a high-risk zone. 
• You live in a high-risk flood zone and have received disaster assistance through FEMA or the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). If you choose not to purchase flood insurance, typically, you will not qualify for future aid.  

What Does Flood Insurance Cost? 
Your flood insurance policy depends on your property and location. We can help you decide what coverage best meets your needs, if you’re eligible for FEMA flood insurance, and what your coverage may cost.  

Get Protection Today 
Flood insurance doesn’t take effect until 30 days after purchasing your policy. However, if your lender requires that you have flood insurance to make, increase, extend or renew your loan, there’s no waiting period.  

Call Mr. Auto Insurance today at 888-249-5464 to speak to one of our agents about flood protection for your Florida home.