California Flood Insurance

Flood Insurance For Southern California, Calabasas, Agoura, Woodland Hills, CA

Flood insurance provides protection for your home and belongings for destruction and financial devastation caused by floods and rising waters. Although it may not seem like much even a few inches of water can cause serious damage; resulting in thousands of dollars in repair and restoration costs. Homeowners insurance does not cover floods, you must purchase a separate flood insurance policy to ensure you a protected against this specific peril.

Although it may not seem as necessary as homeowners insurance, flood insurance is important if you want to keep your home safe and your possessions secure. Affordable flood coverage offers protection against losses that result from heavy and lengthy rain falls, storm surges, blocked storm drainage systems, snow melts, etc. 

Different types of policies are available based on your property’s location and flood history:

Standard Affordable Flood Insurance Policies in California

• If you live in a community that participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), your building and its contents can be covered by a standard flood insurance policy. The NFIP was established by the Federal Government to help communities who “voluntarily participate in the NFIP by adopting and enforcing floodplain management ordinances to reduce future flood damage.” To be considered a flood, the waters must cover at least two acres or affect at least two properties. You must apply for building coverage and contents coverage separately if you choose to invest in a standard flood insurance policy.
  

Preferred Risk Flood Insurance Policies for California

• If your home or business is in a low or moderate risk zone, your building may qualify for a low-cost preferred risk policy. While you aren’t required to purchase flood insurance in low-to-moderate risk areas, a preferred risk policy will protect your home and its contents if you are affected by a small flood or a larger flood that has extended into your low-risk area. In truth, many flood insurance claims occur in low-to-moderate risk areas.

FEMA - The Federal Emergency Management Agency is an agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security, initially created under President Jimmy Carter, overseas all flood zone maps. You can use this link to determine your flood zone and or if flood insurance is something you may want to consider. Floods don’t follow city limits or property lines. Using a flood map, you can see the relationship between your property and the areas with the highest risk of flooding. There is no such thing as a “no-risk zone,” but some areas have a lower or moderate risk.

Is flood insurance necessary for California residents during an El Nino Winter?

Yes, flood insurance is highly recommended for California residents, especially during an El Nino Winter. El Nino weather patterns can bring heavy rainfall and increased flood risk to the region. While standard homeowners' insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage, having a separate flood insurance policy can provide crucial financial protection in the event of flooding. It is important to note that there is typically a 30-day waiting period before flood insurance coverage takes effect, so it's wise to purchase it well in advance of any potential storms.

Are there any government programs or assistance available for flood insurance in California during an El Nino Winter?

Yes, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is a government program that offers flood insurance coverage to homeowners, renters, and business owners in participating communities. The NFIP aims to provide affordable flood insurance options to individuals residing in flood-prone areas. It is important to note that flood insurance policies under the NFIP are sold and serviced by private insurance companies, but the coverage is backed by the federal government.

Can renters in California obtain flood insurance during an El Nino Winter?

Yes, renters in California can obtain flood insurance during an El Nino Winter. Renters' flood insurance policies are available to protect their personal belongings in the event of flood damage. It is important for renters to consider purchasing flood insurance, as their landlord's insurance typically does not cover their personal property.