Many homeowners realize too late that a standard homeowners insurance policy typically excludes damage from rising water. Whether it is a heavy coastal storm in Salisbury, a flash flood in North Bethesda, or significant runoff in Harrington, water damage is a costly risk that requires specific protection.
The “High-Risk” Myth You do not have to live in a federally designated high-risk flood zone to experience a loss. In fact, a significant percentage of flood claims come from areas considered low-to-moderate risk. Local weather patterns in Maryland and Delaware can change quickly, turning a summer storm into a basement-flooding event.
What Does a Flood Policy Cover? A flood policy generally provides two main types of protection:
- Building Property: This protects the physical structure of your home, including the foundation, electrical and plumbing systems, and water heaters.
- Personal Contents: This covers your belongings inside the home, such as furniture, electronics, and clothing.
The 30-Day Waiting Period Most flood insurance policies, including those through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), have a 30-day waiting period before the coverage becomes active. Waiting until a storm is on the horizon is often too late to secure the protection you need.
Private vs. NFIP Options Residents in our region often have a choice between government-backed policies and private market options. Private flood insurance may offer higher limits or additional coverages that a standard NFIP policy cannot provide.
Local Support at Staples & Associates Our teams understand the specific geographic risks of the Mid-Atlantic. We help neighbors in North Bethesda, Salisbury, and Harrington evaluate their risk levels and find a policy that fits their property.
Protecting your home from the unexpected starts with understanding your current coverage gaps. Reach out to one of our local offices to review your options.
Contact Staples & Associates:
- Salisbury, MD: (410) 546-3999
- Harrington, DE: (302) 398-3276
- North Bethesda, MD: (240) 848-0355