09/01/2017
With the recent heavy rains in our area and the catastrophic flooding in Texas, we thought it would be a good time to discuss flood issues and your property. A homeowner’s policy excludes coverage for water entering a home from an outside source, i.e. rain water running into the basement through an egress window, or seeping in through the foundation or basement.
“But what about the federal flood insurance program?” This is an option, and there are several issues to be aware of when purchasing this policy. First and foremost, the policy is very limited when it comes to basements. The flood policy language states the following exclusions for basements: curtains, blinds, carpet and other floor coverings, drywall and personal property including furniture, or in other words, everything valuable in your basement. Flood water would have to enter your main floor in order for the policy to provide any coverage for your home and personal property. Nebraskans love our basements as they provide great shelter from tornadoes and hot days! We just don’t have any way to insure these areas against flooding.
Some best practice ideas to prevent water from entering your basement: 1. Gutters that direct roof water several feet away from the foundation. Be sure to keep the gutters clean so water doesn’t back up and flow over the sides. 2. Positive downward slope away from your home with the surrounding yard area, especially around egress windows 3. A perimeter sump drain system. 4. Egress window well covers.
As always, we are here to answer any questions you may have. Have a safe and happy Labor Day Weekend!