Floods are among the most deadly weather related hazards. According to a White House Report, since 1957-2005 floods accounted for 98 deaths per year, most were drowning related. The damage caused by flooding is not covered in a homeowner's policy. Minnesota has seen more flash flooding in the recent past, including in Minneapolis last spring, when the state saw one of the wettest springs in history. 

The impact of a flood does not recede with the waters. If water does get into the house it can cause the growth of mold and mildew. If a home has a sump pump, make sure your homeowner's policy has sewer and water back up coverage. Most policies do not include this coverage so it must be added as an endorsement. If a heavy downpour happens to cause flash flooding, a home is not the only thing affected. A car can become damaged by flooding, and can cause a short circuit in the electrical components. Carrying comprehensive insurance on an auto insurance policy would provide coverage if a car was damaged due to flooding. If you have car insurance that is liability only, you would not have coverage in the event of a flood.

2014 in Minneapolis was a wet year, the Minnehaha creek was at record levels, and many households had water damage. This year may not be as cold, but we still could see heavy spring downpours, and mixed with a frozen ground that could cause localized flooding. Typically there is a 30 day binding period before the policy goes into force.

Do not hesitate to get flood insurance or talk to an agent at A.T.C. Agency to see if flood insurance is right for you. Home insurance does not cover damage related to flooding, and it takes at least 30-days for a policy to be in force, so act today.