Texas is a state with a high level of risk for flooding. FEMA has produced a guide for flood preparation and safety. It starts by saying that “The first step in protecting your home and family is purchasing flood insurance”. This seems obvious but may people neglect this coverage or put it off for later. In most cases there is a 30 day waiting period for coverage to begin so don’t wait for a pending disaster.
The least expensive place to get flood insurance is usually from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). This is backed by the federal government and the cost is usually quite low. Here a few examples of the Texas flood insurance cost if you qualify for the preferred rate:
- $50,000 coverage for your home plus $20,000 contents for $196 per year
- $100,000 coverage for your home plus $40,000 contents for $257 per year
- $200,000 coverage for your home plus $80,000 contents for $326 per year
Here are some tips to be prepared for a flood and to be safe during a flood. You can get more information at www.floodsmart.gov.
- Copy important documents and store them in a safe place
- Save receipts for expensive household items to help process your claim if you have a loss
- Take photos or video of your most valuable property to help document a loss if you have one
- Review your insurance policies with a good agent to be sure you have the right coverage
- Keep emergency supplies on hand with things like flashlights, batteries, candles, matches, medicines, a first aid kit, extra gasoline, and possibly a generator.