With the warm promise of spring comes the anticipation of rain. Though the rain can mean beautiful spring flowers, it can also mean some ugly problems for your home, yard and car. Springtime flooding can be caused by increased rainfall, melting snow and other factors and can put your assets at risk. With preparation and the proper coverage in place, you can protect your home and car from flood risk.

According to the National Flood Insurance Program, more than 20% of flood insurance claims come from properties not in high-risk flood zones. This spring, take advantage of the good weather and prepare your home and your insurance policies against flooding. You never know when disaster can strike.

Spring Flood Insurance Concerns

When thinking about flooding and insurance, the most important thing to be aware of is that your homeowners or renters insurance will not cover flooding. While home insurance does cover some water damage, if it’s considered flooding your homeowners insurance will not cover the damages – not the damage to your home’s structure or to your personal property.

In spring, melting snow is a major cause of flooding around the colder parts of the country. Melting snow can be a tricky one to figure out – is it flooding or water damage? A quick rule of thumb that often applies in this scenario is if the water damage comes from above, like your roof or the gutters on your home when the snow is melting, it would likely be considered water damage and your homeowners insurance would probably cover the damage. If the melting snow causes the water table to rise and water seeps into your basement, that would not be considered water damage and likely considered flooding, which would require flood insurance coverage.

The nuances can be tricky and the best way to understand what is and isn’t covered is to consult a licensed insurance agent. Call one of our insurance advisors at (844) 300-3367 to review your homeowners insurance policy and compare quotes for flood insurance.

The water from above / water from below argument tends to stand up to water damage from rain as well. If water is leaking in from your roof, your homeowners insurance could help. If water is seeping into your basement after a big rainstorm, it probably won’t. Again, take this advice with a grain of salt and call your insurance agent or one of our insurance advisors to better understand what your existing insurance coverage does and doesn’t cover.

Unfortunately, if you’re scrambling to get flood insurance coverage due to impending flooding in your area, that may not be possible. Generally, there is a 30-day waiting period between the purchase of the flood insurance policy and when it goes into effect. Planning ahead and working with an insurance agent can help you prepare.

Your home isn’t your only asset that can be affect by flooding. Your car is also vulnerable if the flooding is severe. If you have a comprehensive auto insurance policy, then you will likley be covered if water does damage to your car. However, speaking to an agent will always be the best idea if you are unsure what your policy does or does not cover. An insurance agent will also know what type of coverage will be best for you as well as any state-mandated policies. Give us a call today at (844) 300-3367 to review your coverage and see how much we can help you save.

Tips to Avoid Spring Flooding Damage to Your Home

  • If there is snow on your property, clear it away from your house. When it becomes warmer, the snow will melt and could enter your home. Moving the snow away will help keep your home dry.
  • Clear snow from your roof. If it is still cold out, then there could be risk of ice dam damage. An ice dam could cause you thousands of dollars if you are not careful!
  • Clear your gutters. It could cause problems if water cannot properly drain away from your house. Make sure that the water drains at least four feet away from your house. You may need to get an extension to make this possible.
  • Check your sump pump and make sure it’s working. In case your basement is flooded, you’ll want to have this working before disaster strikes.
  • Window well covers are a great way to minimize the risk of basement flooding if you have below-grade windows.
  • Check your foundation for any cracks. You may be able to fill in small cracks yourself, but if there are bigger problems, you may need to call in a professional. 
  • Ground slope can play a role into home flooding. If the ground slopes towards your house, you may be at a high risk for flooding. If possible, try to slope the ground away from your home.

Tips to Avoid Spring Flooding Damage to Your Car

  • 6 inches of water is all it takes to damage your car and make it stall, 12 inches of water can cause your car to float, and 24 inches of water can make your car float away.
  • Park your car in higher areas if you know you are going to get heavy rainfall.
  • If you need to drive during heavy rainfall or flooding, do so with caution. Drive slowly, try not to break suddenly, and avoid downed power lines and other objects.
  • If you own a convertible, make sure to put the top up before the rain arrives. 
  • Flood covers are an affordable way to protect your car. They are available in most auto parts stores. To be most effective, use two covers: one on top of the car, and one underneath.
  • If you suspect your car has been flooded, do not try to start it. If the engine has water in it, turning on the car could damage it beyond repair. Bring your car to a repair shop and get it checked to make sure it is safe. They can also fix some of the damage.

The Bottom Line

Spring may mean the end of a cold and dreary winter, but with melting snow and spring showers there are new risks to consider when it comes to your home and car. These tips and a call to your insurance agent can help you protect yourself from damage and the potentially financially devastating effects of flooding.


Compare flood insurance quotes today with the help of one our expert advisors by calling (844) 300-3367 today.

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