Flood Damage Insurance Claims

By Shane Hobbs and Alexandra Smilansky

When you have true flood damage versus water damage in Dallas Fort Worth, Texas, it is important to know what your insurance policy covers in terms of various water flooding scenarios. Your water damage claim may be denied due to incorrect terminology or coding. Be an informed consumer and read your policy carefully.

Insurance companies usually do not cover natural geological events, such as landslides, hurricanes, earthquakes and floods. Insurance companies are very specific in their definition of what constituted flooding. That narrow definition specifies that flooding is an overflow of a natural body of water, such as a lake or an ocean.

Water damages occur when water gets into your Dallas Fort Worth home other than through the overflowing of a body of water. Depending on your particular insurance policy, many water emergencies are covered, but there are multiple scenarios of what is covered and under what conditions. When you know what your water damage policy covers, you know what language to use to describe the situation for your claim to be approved. That means that if your water heater bursts and "floods" your Dallas Fort Worth home or your washing machine overflows and your basement has 3" of standing water, it does not qualify under the definition of a true flood, which is good because chances are your insurance would cover these water damage scenarios - just don't use the word "flood" when filing your claim.

Here are some examples of water emergency situations and their outcome, depending on your insurance company's interpretation of events that led to the damages.

Water Damage from burst frozen pipes
Most insurance policies cover you for burst frozen pipes; however, if you went on vacation and failed to turn on the heat in your Dallas, Texas home during subzero weather, your claim would most likely be denied due to your failure to anticipate the events, thus causing the damage.

Water Damage from Overflowing Appliances
Most insurance policies would cover an overflow of your washing machine that floods your basement. However, the insurance company may make a case for the improper maintenance and upkeep of the washing machine in which case, the washer's replacements parts would not be covered by your insurance.

Water Damage from Leaky Roof
Your insurance would likely cover your water damaged Dallas home and furnishings, but would not cover the cost of repairing your roof because that is considered a regular homeowners' maintenance responsibility.

Water Damage from Leaky Pool
Your insurance would cover leaks from your pool that end up damaging and flooding your basement; however, if your lawn got damaged in this particular scenario, the lawn would not be covered.

Water Damages Not Covered by Insurance
What water flooding emergency situations would not be covered by your insurance?
Water trickling from the ground and damaging your basement and foundation are regarded as a maintenance rather than an accidental issue. Sewage back up issues are not covered by standard policies, although additional coverage through endorsements could be available to purchase. Although floods are America's primary cause of natural disasters, the standard Homeowners' Insurance Policy does not cover floods; however, if you live in a flood risk area, you can buy such a policy from the government if your community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program. There is more information about specific flood hazards on http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/.

The above examples show that when you call your insurance company to file a water damage claim, you should be honest, but be aware that you should be factual in your description of the water damage. Know what your policy covers and what it does not cover and present your situation accurately, without using words or terms that raise a red flag to the person on the other end. For example, if your water heater burst and when making a claim you say that your house just flooded, that is not within the narrow interpretation of the insurance company's definition of flood. So, although to you, your home is flooded because you are standing in 3" of water, when you report the incident to your insurance company, just state the facts: your home is full of water due to your water heater bursting.

Shane Hobbs is a water restoration expert in the Dallas Fort Worth area. Learn more about water damage restoration in Dallas.

Read more about fire and water damage restoration.

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What Homes Are Eligible For Grandfathering?

By Paul R Woodward

A home can qualify for grandfathering two ways. If the homeowner has carried continuous flood insurance on their home while the area that they live was rated as a low risk and the area is changed to a high risk flood zone, the policy will remain on what is called a preferred policy. They would be given a lower premium than others that purchase a policy after the area has been changed to high risk. The other form of grandfathering is to be grandfathered for built in compliance. If the date that the home had its last substantial improvement was while there was a flood map in place that rated the area that they live as low risk and the area rating was changed to high risk then you will eligible to be grandfathered into a regular policy. This would potentially save hundreds of dollars per year on your flood insurance.

It is important that consumers work with an experienced agent to ensure that their policy is properly rated and that they are receiving the premium that your home qualifies for. If a home is currently located in a high risk flood area then having an experienced agent could also simplify the process of a flood insurance purchase.

Although flood insurance if federally controlled and all NFIP flood insurance policies offer the same rates, consumers may want to call a few agents prior to purchasing a flood insurance policy. Not all agents are familiar with the process of qualifying a home for grandfathering for being built in compliance. If the home is located in a high risk flood zone consumers will see a significant difference in the quotes that they receive based upon the way that the policy is rated.

Paul R Woodward, President, Bains & Woodward Insurance Services, Inc.
http://www.bainsandwoodward.com
http://www.bainsandwoodward.com/flood-articles-is-my-home-eligible-for-grandfathering.html

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Flood Preparedness - Flood Safety Tips to Protect Your Home & Family

By Jessica Penick

No matter where you live, it is likely you will experience one of the most common forms of natural disasters: flooding. From mild spring melting that shows up in puddles on your basement floor as winter snow melts to monsoon-like rain storms throughout the summer months, flooding happens. Although you can't avoid flood conditions, you can properly prepare for floods.

Flood safety tips you should know

A comprehensive flood preparedness strategy includes many necessary steps. It's important to prepare ahead of time to help you protect your home and your family in case flooding becomes severe. Flood preparation includes more than just waterproofing your basement and knowing what not to store in areas of your property that are prone to water damage. Whether you're a homeowner or apartment dweller, the following flood safety tips can be to help you prepare for whatever flooding you may encounter down the road.

• Be aware of the emergency flood plan in your area. While preparing for a flood, it is important to learn about your community's emergency plans, warning signals, evacuation routes, and locations of emergency shelters. This information may come in handy if you are ever caught in dangerous flooding conditions.
• Stay tuned. During inclement weather, keep informed by listening to your local radio or television stations. This way, you'll stay up-to-date on possible flood warnings and reports of flooding in progress. You will also be properly advised as to what to do and when.
• Be prepared to quickly evacuate. Flooding can happen fast, so it is important to have all the necessary items gathered in advance. Create an emergency supply kit that includes:

o Three-day water supply

o Three-day supply of non-perishable food (don't forget your manual can-opener)

o Disposable plates, cups and utensils

o First aid kit including prescription medications

o Battery-powered radio

o Flashlight and extra batteries

o Personal hygiene items

o Any essential items for individual family members, pets, etc.

• Head for higher ground. Whether you are outside or within your home, if a flood occurs, you should always look for higher ground. According to the Red Cross, if you come to ankle-deep water, you should stop and go another way: Even as little as six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off your feet.
• Avoid flood waters. If you are driving and come upon a flooded road, turn around and drive the other way. However, if you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground on foot. The Red Cross explains that most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water. Flood waters should also be avoided due to contamination or the possibility of being electrically charged due to fallen power lines.
• Be careful in the dark. When evacuating in the evening, there is additional danger because flood hazards may be hard to see. If possible, travel during the day to avoid hard-to-see standing water and flood currents.
• Use caution when cleaning up after a flood. While flood safety is paramount during a flood, you should also be cautious while in recovery mode. Avoid downed power lines, and make sure to report them to the power company. Beware of animals like snakes that could have made their homes in standing water. Also, clean and disinfect all inside surfaces that got wet. This should help prevent mold and mildew from forming.
• Invest in flood insurance coverage. Many homeowners are unaware that their home insurance policies don't cover flood damage. Flood insurance coverage is exclusively offered through the federally-backed and government-operated National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Flood insurance is the single best way you can help protect yourself from flood losses. Whether you're a condo owner, a renter or a homeowner, you should invest in flood insurance coverage. Rather than paying for repairs with a loan, a flood insurance policy will ensure that you get the coverage and response that you need. This way, you can make the repairs you need to recover quickly. Flood insurance may also cover cleanup expenses. And, flood insurance isn't just for homeowners.

Flood preparedness can help keep you and your family safe in case of flooding. So, in all of your flooding preparation, don't forget to protect yourself and your home and get a flood insurance quote from Nationwide Insurance today.

Jessica Penick is a senior content specialist at Rosetta, one of the top 10 interactive agencies in the country. Penick has a degree in English/Creative Writing from Cleveland State University. In addition to her traditional copywriting background, she also has valuable experience in the search engine optimization field. Originally from Cleveland, OH, she has also lived in London, England, as well as Tanzania and Uganda in East Africa.

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Discover the Importance of National Flood Insurance

By Joe Sloan

Considering the fact that one-third of floods cause damage to homes that are far from any body of water, you may not need to be near a river or other body of water to need flood coverage. Your homeowner policy does not cover ground or below ground damage to your home.

The federal government, with the help of FEMA (also known as the Federal Emergency Management Program) created a program to provide insurance coverage in case of flooding called the national flood insurance program. Listed below are some of the benefits of purchasing flood coverage and also some information you need to know.

When you choose to participate in the insurance company, it covers damage from powerful rainstorms. The insurance provided by the government also protects your home in the event that your home is damaged from a flooded river or lake. Flood insurance, however, does not cover any personal property that is at or below ground level. So, this type of coverage will not replace your carpeting or finished walls in your basement unless it is a walkout basement (above ground).

If your house is located in a low-risk flood area, you can pay as little as $100 a year for flood protection. You can purchase a policy that covers flooding from an agent, typically, from the agent that handles your homeowners insurance. However, you must wait 30 days after purchasing a policy for your flood insurance coverage to kick in. Flood insurance is inexpensive and covers a wide variety of flood damage. Purchase some coverage today and protect your home from flood damage.

Joe Sloan has been writing articles online for nearly 4 years now. Not only does this author specialize in diet, fitness, and weight loss, you can also check out his latest website on Proform Crosswalk Treadmill which reviews the Proform Crosswalk treadmill. http://www.proformcrosswalktreadmill.net/

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What You Need to Know About Roof Water Damage

By Francis Followsby

The importance of keeping the roof maintained and in good condition is basically common sense. After all, this is the part of the house that protects the residents and family members from the environment. Damage to the roof via water is a very worrying scenario, for numerous reasons.

Leaks in the roof will enable water to find it's way inside during rains and storms. The moisture will then accumulate in the roof space. This is a perfect breeding ground for molds and mildews. Unpleasant odors can also result from the moisture.

In addition to that, the water will eventually come through the ceiling below and pool on everything directly below it. There is no way to avoid getting the furniture, carpets and floor wet,badly stained or worse still, totally ruined.

Furthermore, as mentioned previously, the presence of unnecessary moisture can lead to mold and mildew if left untreated. In turn this could lead to health issues, Because mold and mildew are natural allergens illnesses such as breathing and chest problems, asthma and rashes could start to occur among family members. These can affect both adults and children, but the latter are much more vulnerable to their ill effects because their immune systems are more sensitive.

The roof water damage can come in the form of rotting roof. With this condition, the roof has a tendency to weaken and be a breeding place for harmful substances. Eventually, the entire roof may collapse as its inability to support the leak lessens.

In terms of the home's overall value, the damage to the roof will have a negative impact on the market price and even the saleability of the home. More so, it can be highly expensive to repair a damage roof. The costs are even higher if one has to replace the roof.

When applying for home insurance, it is definitely a recommendation to obtain ample coverage that will include any problem resulting from water damage. Since the damage caused by water can be of varying causes, insurance providers have specific policies that cover one, all or a combination of the different possible causes of water damage to a roof and other areas of the house.

Do not forget to clean out the gutters regularly. If there are objects blocking the gutters, overflow of rainwater will occur. This will not only damage and leaks, it may enable the water to find it's way into the roof.

The impact of roof water damage will become ever more extensive with time. It will result to higher bills and more expense in the long run. Apart from all that, it can make one's home an unsafe place to be for everyone in the family.

Francis Followsby writes about Water Damage at www.waterdamagehappens.com

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Restore the Natural Conditions of a Flood Water Damage Basement

By Francis Followsby

Natural occurrences are something we cannot take full control of. There are conditions in our environment that we can work on to help lessen the possibilities of situations such as a flood. But, once the flood occurs, it will be really hard to deal with. A more difficult situation to deal with is a water damage basement due to the flood.

Aside from having the basement flooded because of persistent rain and similar weather conditions, there is also the possibility of standing flood water in the basement caused by previous heavy rains. Both situations can bring serious health and safety hazards for everyone in the family.

To help bring back the water damaged basement to its safe and normal state, here are some helpful considerations to bear in mind.

1. Safety is the largest concern in this situation. To avoid further complications with regards to electrical connections, it is highly recommended to turn of the house's main source of electrical power.

2. The next stop is with the source of the water getting into the basement. If there is a leak in any parts of the roof, it should be covered immediately to avoid further inflow of water into the basement.

3. After careful assessment of the flooded basement, it is time to move on with the actually removal of the water within the room. This can be done with the help of a drainage system set up for the location. If there is none, one can make use of a submersible water pump to get rid of the water in the basement.

4. When the water has been extracted, it is time to get the whole place dry. Moist places give off an unpleasant smell in the long run. Having a number of box fans continuously drying the entire room plus a working dehumidifier to help stabilize the amount of moisture and the level of humidity in the room is really important.

5. In terms of the insurance policy, it is possible for one's coverage to involve the damage caused by a flood. It basically depends on one's type of coverage and what it involves.

Aside from the immediate effects of the water damaged basement, it is the serious health conditions that leaking water can pose. This is probably the single biggest reason why the situation needs to be dealt with right then and there.

Francis Followsby writes about Water Damage at www.waterdamagehappens.com

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The Benefits of Flood Insurance and Who Needs to Have It

By Aaliyah Arthur

Flood insurance is a separate type of policy that should be purchased by anyone who lives in an area that is at high risk for flooding because most if not all standard home insurance policies don't cover two things - Earthquakes and floods. And for people who live in high to moderate risk areas for floods, there is a 26% chance that your home will experience some flood damage in the thirty year period that you hold your mortgage. Even just a few inches of water going through your home can create massive damage.

Even just a few inches of water going through your home can create massive damage. Think about it. Flood water is going to contain sewage, pollution, and chemical waste such as oil and gas and now it is in your living room, kitchen, bathroom and bedroom seeping into your carpets and walls leaving a lasting imprint. Even in a best case scenario - your carpets and floors will have to be ripped out and replaced and if your walls were damaged you will likely have to rip out the drywall, insulation and baseboards and replace them as well to guard against mold and rot.

Can you afford to replace the contents of your home and do the massive repairs that will be required to make your home livable and marketable again without the help of insurance? If we learned anything from Hurricane Katrina it is that home repairs are extensive and expensive and most homes that were hit by Hurricane Katrina are still damaged and abandoned all these years later as former homeowners were unable to do the costly repairs to make the homes safe again.

Even if you feel safe from flooding because you live in an area that is not considered in a flood zone, you should keep in mind that floods can happen anywhere at any time. Every state has the risk of flooding. Floods can start from more than just Hurricanes or rivers that crest over banks. Winter storms, snow melt off, and even new construction altering the water run off patterns for an area and lead to flooding where it is least expected to occur.

Flood insurance cost varies depending on a variety of variables including the age of the building to be insured, the number of floors, the building occupancy, the location of the buildings contents and where it is located in a flood zone. Other factors that affect premiums include how much coverage you want and do you want to cover the building or the contents of the building or both?

Talk to your agent about flood insurance before you need it because when you actually do need it and don't have it in place, it will be too late.

If you are in need of insurance, Baton Rouge businesses have the knowledge and experience to fulfill your needs. There's no need to risk your home by not having flood protection.
Visit http://sunshinepages.com

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Flood Insurance - Reinstatement of FEMA Flood Insurance Just in Time

By Tina Schwartz-Miller

Knowing that the lapse of Flood Insurance Funding could literally devastate millions in the path of Hurricane Alex, the U.S. Senate temporarily reauthorized the federal flood insurance program, though this temporary fix is only in place through September 30th of this year. If things in Washington go according to normal, they might get through a permanent bill just in time to delay the budget process for the DOD, Department of Defense, which will be due in October, another annual milestone that always seems to be a day late and a dollar short.

Regardless, the bill was passed June 30th, is retroactive to June 1st, when the funding of the program expired and will be in effect through September 30th. President Obama signed it on July 2nd.

It is amazing that this program, that is so critical to the housing market, especially during this financial crisis, was not only in jeopardy, but not enacted in time to prevent the trickledown effect that this would have. Any home purchase deemed to be within a flood zone could not close as planned. Realtors and prospective home buyers and sellers were grinding their teeth in frustration as once again the guys in Washington seemed to be totally disconnected from the mainstream by not understanding the importance of having the new funding and bill in place prior to the old one's expiration. Even those who already owned homes in flood zones but that required renewal were put on hold and at risk. In Texas alone, more than 680,000 residents have flood insurance policies and almost 10,000 of them are in Nueces County, where hurricanes often come ashore or cause flooding and devastation.

If this had not been enacted, then those same people would have been applying for disaster assistance instead, which would have done nothing more but cost millions of tax-payer dollars in claims. And, in true Washington style, there has been no apology and Congress has not given a time-frame for revisiting the original legislation; they are only expected to revisit it before the temporary reauthorization expires. In the mean time, everyone is now scrambling to get homes sales closed and to reinstate lapsed policies, no doubt tapping into overtime pay that would not have been required if Congress had acted in a timely manner.

Maybe it is time that the options for flood insurance be given to the private sector, rather than being controlled by the government. Wouldn't that make a whole lot more sense? Doesn't Congress have a whole lot more to worry about than continuing to manage a program that would be better handled by the insurance companies that are experienced at this kind of thing? Wouldn't it reduce government spending? It is surely true that Congress's inability to get things done on time would not have impacted so many if the private sector held these flood insurance policies. What do you think? Let your representatives in Congress know how you feel, especially if you have been affected, or know of persons affected by Congress's historic, but normal, inability to act on time and the government's inability to properly manage one of its programs.

One of Tina's favorite hobbies is gardening. Some of her favorite flowers are the bright and cheerful, chrysanthemums and some of her favorite veggies are heirloom tomatoes!

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Six Ways to Save on Flood Insurance!

By Glenn Lamb

Most flood insurance policies are purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program. This will almost always be the least expensive way to get coverage because the NFIP program rates are subsidized by the government. The rates are set by the government so most people assume that shopping around will not result in savings. That is true to a point, but there may be some options to reduce the cost. Here are some suggestions.

• Some agency's charge an agency fee on top of the policy cost. This should not be necessary because the agent gets a commission on the sale. Get your policy from a company that does not charge an additional policy fee.
• Different deductibles are available. Your premium will be lower if you go with a higher deductible.
• Consider the level of risk for your property. If you are in a favorable area, where the worst case would be a few inches of water in your home, you could insure for less than the full value of your property to save on the cost. This involves risk so consult with your agent if you are considering a lower coverage level.
• In some higher risk zones you might be able to gat a discount with an elevation certificate. If you don't have a certificate ask you agent about that.
• There are a few carriers that will combine flood coverage with your hazard policy, especially with mobile or manufactured homes. Ask you agent about that.
• Flood zones are constantly being redrawn. It is not unusual for an area to be mapped to a higher risk rating. When you already have a policy you can be "grandfathered" to the previous zone rating, if your policy doesn't lapse. So don't let your coverage lapse!

Article by Glenn Lamb

Farmers Flood Insurance Agency, Houston, Texas - Flood Insurance.

Also visit our Apartment Insurance site at Flood Insurance Houston.

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Getting Flood Insurance - What it Covers

By C. J. Harrison

Floods are a disaster that no one can really prepare for. What many people do not realize is that their homeowner's policy does not cover floods. Unfortunately, most people realize this too late. Many people do not know how to go about getting flood insurance and what it covers.

So, what is the insurance definition of flood? A flood is a temporary condition where greater than two acres of normally dry land or properties are inundated by water or mud. Things like hurricanes, rapid rainfall, and clogged drainage systems can all cause a flood.

In 1968, the US government got involved by offering the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). They offer flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and business owners. This insurance helps people financially protect themselves in the event of a water related disaster.

The residential policy covers the dwelling. However, content coverage is optional. It is best to get both because floods typically destroy many items in the house as well. This policy has a 30 day waiting period after purchase before the policy will be effective.

Premiums will vary depending on whether FEMA has your home in a high, moderate or low risk flood area. Premiums for low risk dwelling start at $120 for the home and contents.

Just a few inches of water can cause thousands of dollars worth of damage to your home or office. Last year alone, the average damage due to flood was $33,000. Therefore, it is important to protect yourself with flood insurance through the NFIP.

As an author for Blue Flip Flops and Orange Flip Flops, the writer compares & reviews dozens of goods.

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Understanding the Availability of Flood Insurance in Your Area

By Tina Schwartz-Miller

If you live in a flood zone and you are financing your home, your lender has the right (as well as the responsibility) of making sure that you have flood insurance. Nationwide, it is believed that only about 20% of all property in the United States is in a flood zone. However, the federal government does require that any properties that are in these zones who have qualified for government loan guarantees carry flood insurance.

In spite of the low number of properties that are in designated flood areas, FEMA estimates that approximately 1/3 of flooding claims come from properties outside of those areas. Unfortunately, many people believe that their traditional homeowners insurance will protect them for damages caused by floods.

Flood insurance, like other insurance, has specific riders. Riders can include items like coverage of your building and the contents such as machinery, and in homes, personal property. Certain conditions may be imposed on your flood policy so you must verify what is covered. Flood insurance may also have a personal property rider to be used only on items that are in the affected property. This would exclude external items such as cars and recreational vehicles. If you believe that flooding could result in a necessity for debris removal, you should check your policy carefully for coverage of these expenses.

Special coverage is also available to provide coverage if you are forced to remove your belongings to another location to protect them from potential flooding. This type of policy would apply if you have sufficient reason to believe that your property is potentially threatened by a flood. There are restrictions of this coverage that must be carefully noted when you make your application.

One other item that you may need to verify if you are applying for flood insurance is how property located in your basement is covered. There are some restrictions that you should be aware of before you sign up for your policy.

The cost of flood insurance is typically fairly low, when you consider the damage that can be done to your personal property. There are some items that are excluded from flood coverage including personal documents, automobiles, and pets. Find out what exclusions apply to your policy. But do arrange for coverage, before it is too late.

Along with writing, Tina enjoys bird watching. She uses only the best hummingbird feeders and garden bird baths to attract her feathered friends.

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What is Flood Insurance and Why Do I Need It?

By Jean S. Butler

What Is Flood Insurance And Why Do I Need It?

Weather can be extremely unpredictable. No matter where you live, protecting your home with flood insurance coverage from a respected insurance agent is highly recommended. Whether you are in a designated flood zone or not, it is important to speak to you insurance agent to find out the best flood insurance protection for you and your family.

Definition Of A Flood

According to the National Flood Ins. Guide from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, a flood is short-term situation where land that is two or more acres in size or two adjacent properties that are normally dry are flooded with water. The cause of a flood can be from overflowing rivers and tides, quick accumulation of surface water, mudflows and land collapse due to erosion from waves and currents.

Purchasing a Policy

Many that live near a river, lake or ocean often seek some level of flood insurance for their property. A flood policy insurance protects the structure of the home, property within the home and other possessions that are caused by a flood. The cost of a policy depends on the amount of risk for the home. An insurance underwriter will look at a topographical map and zoning information in order to determine the level of the risk, which will in turn affect the cost.

Why Get a Flood Insurance Policy?

Those that live in high-risk areas within a community that participates in the National Flood Insurance Program are required to obtain flood insurance. For others, the standard homeowner's policy does not cover damage due to a flood. This means that a homeowner is at risk to losing everything if a flood occurs. Many prefer to obtain the additional cover to ensure their property is protected from this natural, sometimes catastrophic disaster. For more information contact an agent today.

Jean is a licensed Property & Casualty agent since 1992 and recently celebrated her 20th year with Sihle Insurance Group. She specializes in all lines of personal insurance coverage and manages the Personal Lines Dept. The average tenure of her team of licensed property & casualty agents is 9 years. She ensures high levels of customer satisfaction and customer service by improving ongoing service delivery methods. She works to maintain long-term, high quality relationships with insurance companies who deliver on "a promise to pay". She serves on several agent advisory councils providing valuable feedback regarding products, processes and solutions to policyholder needs.

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Why Should I Purchase a Flood Insurance Policy?

By Jean S. Butler

People are faced with so many types of personal hardships it can sometimes be a little overwhelming. Protecting you and your family from financial losses or these hardships is important. Unfortunately, the worst hardships are the one that you might choose to ignore and are not expected. One of the biggest disasters a home owner or family can face may come from a flood. There are a few things that you can do to protect yourself and your family from the devastation of a flood.

Buying Flood Insurance - Is it Required?

flood insurance may be a requirement. Any community that participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is zoned into 4 primary categories which include 'undetermined risk areas', 'high risk - coastal areas', 'high risk areas' and 'moderate to low risk areas'. Each category has zoning codes that identify that level of risk within that category. Anyone that lives within a high-risk zone in a 'NFIP' covered community must obtain flood insurance.

Homeowner's Policy Does Not Cover Floods

Often many believe that since they have a homeowner's policy that they are covered if there is a flood. This misconception has been quite costly for homeowners that are devastated by flooding only to find out that they do not have coverage. In the worst cases, families are left without homes, clothing and basic needs. In less damaging situations, families are forced to figure out how to pay for thousands of dollars in repair costs caused by flooding.

Peace Of Mind For Homeowners

The reason to buy flood insurance is the same reason to get any type of property coverage; the policy protects the owner's investment in the property. Property owners have worked way too hard to lose everything in an instant. Purchasing a flood insurance policy gives you the peace of mind and security to know that you and your family will be okay if a disaster strikes. Contact an agent today to learn more about flood insurance and to get a quote.

Jean is a licensed Property & Casualty agent since 1992 and recently celebrated her 20th year with Sihle Insurance Group. She specializes in all lines of personal insurance coverage and manages the Personal Lines Dept. The average tenure of her team of licensed property & casualty agents is 9 years. She ensures high levels of customer satisfaction and customer service by improving ongoing service delivery methods. She works to maintain long-term, high quality relationships with insurance companies who deliver on "a promise to pay". She serves on several agent advisory councils providing valuable feedback regarding products, processes and solutions to policyholder needs.

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How to Get the Best Insurance Rate Quotes

By Sherry Gain

Insurance rate quotes are collected before you determine how to go about insuring yourself. Since insurance is imperative, it is as well that you go in for the best there is. While a good bank balance is a good thing, an insurance is a better option. The reason is, money in the bank has only a face value whereas the insurance has the value of insured money, which could many times the amount that has actually been paid to the insurance company. A diligent operator always gets the best life insurance quotes and decides.

Insurance companies are aplenty, but which is the one that you want? You need to peruse the list and their advantage over others and determine which can possibly do the best by your family if you pass away leaving them on their own. Get the life insurance rates, go over them carefully, compare them, even take the advice of your financial confidante or an auditor before you finally plunge in.

If you die before the members can branch out and live on their own income, they will be left in the lurch with no one to turn to. Which is bad and that is why you need insurance. Everything in life needs money. Education, day to day expenses, the upkeep of family and everything else. Where will they get the money from? If you have insurance, they will be no trouble. Getting a life insurance quote when you are still living and putting some of your money is something you must do.

The one policy any one will go for to simply get insurance is term life insurance wherein the sum insured for is simply paid to the beneficiary on the death of the policy holder. In this policy, the number of years that one desires to pay the premium is decided first and then monthly or quarterly or any other periodic payments are made to the insurance company. If the policy holder happens to die, the nominee gets the whole amount of the sum assured in hands immediately.

Some other kinds of life insurance are whole life insurance and universal life insurance. In the former, premium should always be paid without any delay whatsoever and the sum assured will be paid to the nominee. The later has the in-built provision of lasting only up to the age of 65. Once the policy holder reaches that age, he will be paid the money. Endowment policy does not take cognizance of a policy holder's survival or death but at age 65, the money is paid. Accident policy comes into effect when one dies due to an accident. It should be kept in mind that the policy becomes null and void if the policy holder is unable to recover from an illness and dies or takes recourse to suicide. Buying life insurance can not mean that you will be paid no matter what.

If you have broadband connection at home, insurance facts are at your finger tips. More and more people are into finding the life insurance rates from the Internet. All the companies have their own websites and many other portals help you get the best insurance rate quotes.

If you are looking for Best Insurance Rate Quotes, Rate Rivals offers the best service around. We help our clients understand exactly what type of insurance coverages are best and which ones are more suitable for them.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sherry_Gain

Cheap Auto Insurance Rates and Premiums

By Bryan Burbank

When looking for car insurance you want to find cheap auto insurance rates and premiums. Getting a low rate is a sure fire way of saving money each month on owning your vehicle. We know that it can be expensive because there is the monthly payment, maintenance and insurance on your car that all can add up really fast.

There are several factors that will cause your premium to go up or down. Your driving record needs to be clean for you to get the best rate possible. The more speeding tickets you have the higher your rate will be so make sure that you try to be a good driver and avoid getting tickets.

The company that is giving you insurance might offer a discount if you have another type of insurance with them already. Make sure you ask if they offer a multi-policy discount so that you can get the lowest rate. It is common that if you have say for instance a homeowners policy with them they will give you a discount on the auto insurance.

Another factor they look at the is the type of car you drive. If you have a small sports car that is expensive you can bet the insurance premiums will be high on that vehicle. If you budget for insurance is small than you want to avoid a car that is going to break your bank each month.

Some people may be surprised to find out that where you live plays a big role in what you are charged as well. If you live in a large city such as Los Angeles you will be paying a larger monthly amount than if you live in a small town.

Many insurance companies will offer a discount if the car is not driven that much. If you only drive the car 10,000 miles a year you may be able to pay less that if you drive it 18,000 miles each year. Ask your agent what type of discounts they offer for low driven miles. You can carpool with coworkers to decrease the mileage you use the car each year as well.

Find: Discount Auto Insurance Buy Cheap: Car Insurance Bryan Burbank is an expert in the field of Discount Insurance. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bryan_Burbank

Low Home Insurance Rates - Realistic Ways to Get Them

By John Gephart

There are a lot of rumors about how to get discounted rates on homeowners insurance that just aren't true. Homeowner insurance companies give discounts for certain things, they don't give them for others. Wasting your time and money chasing discounts that aren't there isn't a productive activity for any homeowner. Below is a list of realistic ways to qualify for discounts and get low home insurance rates on your policy.

1) Raise your credit score. Not all homeowners insurance companies offer discounts for high credit ratings, but most do. They look at good credit ratings as a sign of responsibility, a sign that you will take good care of your home. A score above 720 is considered to be great.

2) Good home security. The more products you buy and install to increase the security level of your home, the lower your home coverage rates will be. Security doors, flood lights, alarm systems, and window locks are all great examples of products that will net you savings. Make sure to get a list of approved discounted products from the company you secure coverage with.

3) Combine all insurance policies. Going to the same insurance company for all or most of your insurance policies will save you money on each policy.

4) Proper maintenance of your home. Get a scheduled list of maintenance activities from your insurance company. If you meet their requirements, you will see discounted rates. These discounts don't occur immediately, they take a while to kick in. Examples would be roof maintenance, painting on a schedule, and pest control.

Protecting your home and your financial well being with a good homeowner insurance policy doesn't have to be expensive. Visit Affordable Insurance Options to find out how to get the best coverage at the lowest rates.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Gephart

Factors That Affect Your Car Insurance Rates

By Joseph Devine

If you have ever compared insurance rates with a family member or friend, you may find that you are paying very different amounts for similar coverage. There are many factors that affect car insurance rates that can cause one person to pay two to three times more than another for the same plan. These factors range from personal characteristics to financial habits to vehicle features, but they all have one thing in common: they are considered to be indicators of risk. Insurance companies believe that these factors are indicators for the probability that you will have an accident - and the costliness of the claim when you file.

Major Factors

• Age: Drivers under 25 have the greatest chance of being involved in an accident, while more experienced drivers between the ages of 50 and 65 have the lowest risk.
• Gender: Statistically, women have fewer accidents than men. However, the difference between the sexes is not as great as it once was.
• Vehicle specifics: Make, model, year, and engine size all affect your rates. Newer cars and faster, more powerful cars are considered a greater insurance risk. If you purchase an SUV, you can expect to pay more in insurance for a V8 engine than for a V6.
• Marital status: A married individual will pay less for car insurance than someone who is single.
• Traffic violations: The more traffic tickets you have on your driving record, the higher your rates will be.
• Accident claims: While one minor accident may not affect your insurance much, having a history of accidents, even if they are just fender benders, can increase your premiums.
• Geography: A person living in the city is at a higher risk of having an accident or having his or her car broken into than someone living in a rural, less densely populated area.
• Credit rating: This may seem irrelevant to calculating car insurance, but insurers claim that there is a statistical relationship between having a good driving record and having a good credit rating. Drivers with poor credit have a higher probability of making claims, and more costly claims, than those with good credit.

What You Can Do to Lower Your Rates

If you are struggling to afford your car insurance or just want to knock off a percentage of your cost, there are steps that you can take to reduce your rates. Consider the following money saving tips:

• Drive a less powerful, safer vehicle. Paying for insurance on a small 4-cylinder vehicle instead of a large SUV or sports car can save you a significant sum.
• Take steps to improve your credit. Getting your spending under control and paying bills on time could improve your credit rating and lower your insurance premiums simultaneously.
• Ask about the good student discount. Statistically, students with better grades also have better driving records. If you or someone covered under your insurance is a student, keeping those grades up can knock digits off your coverage costs.
• Drive safely. Taking fewer risks on the road reduces your chances of getting a traffic ticket and also lowers your risk of an accident. Maintaining a good driving record could result in lower rates.

Another great way to find affordable insurance is to shop around with different companies. You are not obligated to stay with one provider for car insurance. Today there are businesses that will assist you with the comparison process and will help you find affordable coverage that meets your needs.

For More Information

To learn more about comparison shopping for insurance and how it can save you a significant sum on auto insurance, visit the website of the friendly Chicago car insurance experts of Insure on the Spot today.

Joseph Devine

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Devine

Get Cheap Dog Pet Insurance Rates

By Ricky Lim

When you're looking for dog pet insurance, you should get the best. It is targeted primarily for domestic dogs whose owners want to ensure their safety.

They are willing to pay amounts of money just to make sure that if something does happen to the dog, they won't have to spend hundreds of dollars.

Over the past three decades, millions of pets owners opt to take care of their pets, as well as their pockets, by getting dog pet insurance. With this, they can regulate the cost of veterinary care just in case something does go wrong.

There are similarities as well as differences. It's up to the owners to go for the insurance provider that they believe offers the services that they are looking for.

The credibility of the insurance provider also comes into play and is one of the considerations the owner looks into before he decides which one to sign with. Today, everything the insurance providers do is to assure the owner that their pet will have a better life.

Pet specialists work in dog pet insurance providers so that the owners will have the feel of the best possible dog insurance.

Just like any kind of insurance, it respond to different needs of different people. There is not one dog pet insurance, there are different kinds. This is because different pet owners have different needs when it comes to dog pet insurance.

That is why if you look at the available insurance plans of each insurance provider, there is a wide range to choose from.

It can be overwhelming sometimes but the secret to this is to just bear in mind what exactly the dog needs and how much the pet owner can afford.

Get a dog pet insurance provider that provides the pet owners the best rates that they can afford. If these benefits can be claimed through discounts, then more pet owners will sign up with this provider.

In fact, there are some providers that grant a percentage off if the owner applies for insurance online.

There is a lot of pet coverage so it is practical for the owner to read up on each insurance and decide on one that allows him to stretch his buck because it is within his budget and also responds to the needs of his pet.

The best indicator that you are going with the right dog pet insurance provider is when the people that work for the company are helpful, friendly, understanding, and are pet lovers.

Discover where to get cheap dog pet insurance rates online. Learn more about health insurance for dogs at my blog today.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ricky_Lim

Tips For Getting the Lowest Car Insurance Rates

By Steve Mackey

If you're shopping for auto coverage, how can you find the lowest auto insurance rates? It seems complicated, but by doing a few things beforehand, you can get great rates on great coverage. Don't be confused, just follow these tips to get the best coverage.

First, take your time. By planning ahead, your insurance search will go more smoothly. Think about insurance even before you buy your car! By getting quotes for different models, you might find that one of the cars you're looking at is much cheaper to insure. Also, different types of cars have different premiums. For example, sports cars will come with a higher premium than family vans.

So get lots of quotes before you decide on a company. Two or three isn't enough -- you need at least five or ten. Since prices vary from company to company, you're doing yourself a huge favor by comparing rates. You'll probably find that the difference between the highest and lowest quote is several hundred dollars! You wouldn't want to end up paying that higher rate, now would you? Since it's so easy to get quotes online these days, there's no excuse for not comparing lots of quotes to find the best coverage at the lowest prices.

Second, when you choose your policy, choose one with a high deductible. A high deducible means that if you have an accident, you'll have to pay more out of pocket until your insurance kicks in. This makes a big difference in your monthly premium and can really save you money over the long run. Of course, it stinks if you have an accident, but by putting some money away in savings, you can easily cover the deductible.

Third, be sure your credit is in good standing before applying for insurance. Since people with poor credit are more likely to file a claim, the insurance companies will charge them more. So get your credit in shape! Check your credit report with the reporting agencies. If there are errors, get them corrected. If your score is low, figure out why and correct it. In some cases, you can positively affect your credit score in just a few months. Pay your bills on time, use your credit cards responsibly, and check for reporting errors. If needed, consult with a financial adviser to make a plan to get your credit score up. This is another tip that will save you lots of money in the long run.

Fourth, maintain a clean driving record. A person with no moving violations, no traffic tickets, and no DUIs will have a good chance to get the lowest auto insurance rates. Even simple things like taking a defensive driving course can sometimes get you cheaper insurance. Making yourself less of a risk to the insurance company will result in lower costs for you.

Get Quotes Online Now

If you're looking for auto insurance, click here to get quotes online right now. Just enter your zip code and press enter. You can compare quotes from different companies in your area to find the cheapest, best coverage. Don't wait -- visit http://getcarinsurancequote.info today!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Mackey