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Flood Insurance

What is Flood Insurance?

GreatFlorida Insurance can help protect your investment with a Florida flood insurance policy through the NFIP. The NFIP is administered by the U.S. Government. It was designed to lower the rising costs associated with repairing damage to property and belongings caused by flood.Florida has the largest number of participants in the NFIP. While flood insurance is backed by the government, it cannot be purchased directly but must be purchased through an insurance agent.

Who Needs Flood Insurance?

Federal law requires homeowner’s with property in flood zone areas or areas designated as high-risk have flood insurance. Depending on the location of the home, flood insurance could be required as a condition of the mortgagee. Properties in areas considered low or moderate risk are not required by federal law to have flood insurance-however, a lender can still make it a requirement. Flood insurance is available to homeowner’s and renters and is highly recommended to all living in Florida.

GreatFlorida Insurance agents can help you identify your property’s risk to assess your needs for flood insurance.

Many homeowners assume they can collect federal disaster assistance if a flood occurs but it is only offered when the president declares a major disaster which only happens in half of all flooding situations.

Why Flood Insurance is Important

The entire state of Florida lies within FEMA’s (Federal Emergency Management Agency) highest designation of storm frequency, making Florida a flood zone with varying levels of risk. FEMA charts flood zones on consistently updated government maps. Flooding poses a threat to a high number of Florida homes due to the proximity to water and the high number of properties in coastal areas.

You do not have to live in a high risk flood zone to experience damage, 25 percent of flood insurance claims come from low or medium risk communities.

GreatFlorida Insurance can help you select the right flood insurance whether you want to cover your structure, belongings or both.

Flooding can be caused several different ways. Hurricanes or tropical storms, an overflow of inland or tidal waters, a rapid accumulation of rain or runoff of surface waters from any source, mudflow or collapse of land or erosion can cause flooding as well as a broken water main.

It takes only inches of water in your home to cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage. Considering the expenses associated with repairing flood damage it makes sense to purchase flood insurance. According to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) the average flood insurance claim amount between 2010 and 2014 was $42,000.

• Most flood insurance policies require a 30-day waiting period before the policy goes into effect unless you have a new home purchase and closing is less than 30 days.
• Flood policies must be paid in full upfront.
• Policies are purchased for a one year term.
• Premiums are based on the amount of coverage you desire, your deductible amount selected, your property’s flood zone risk, location and foundation type on your home.
• Flood insurance covers the home’s foundation and its support systems as well as appliances.
• Coverage is available for the structure and/or your belongings.
• GreatFlorida Insurance agents can help you identify what is covered under building property coverage and personal property coverage as well as coverage for lower levels in your home such as basements and crawlspaces.
• They can walk you through how damages are valued explaining the difference between Replacement Cost Value, RCV or Actual Cash Value, ACV and other special considerations.

Contact your local GreatFlorida Insurance agent for the best Flood Insurance rates in Florida.

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by GreatFlorida Insurance

6/22/2017

An unusually active hurricane season has gotten off to an early start this year. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) has made their predictions for the Atlantic hurricane season. The season occurs  from June 1 – November 30. NOAA  believes 11-17 storms will be named. Five to nine storms will become hurricanes and two to four will develop into major hurricanes.

Many Floridians have proper supplies and food in preparation for a storm, but what about the car? “The majority of damage done to vehicles during a hurricane or tropical storm is from wind and water,” reports Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent car insurance agency.

Incidentally, water damage can total your car. To prevent your car from damage here are some tips from Ready.gov:

If possible, move your car into a garage or covered area before a storm.

Have a full tank of gas if an evacuation is possible.

If you are caught in your car during a storm and the water is rising, move out of the car and get to higher ground.

Do not drive through a flooded area. Six inches of water can cause a vehicle to lose control and possibly stall. A foot of water will float many cars.

Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.

Before the next storm ramps back up, make sure you have the proper car insurance in place.  Collision covers your vehicle if it is hit or if it hits anther object including a car. During a storm, you can easily lose control of your car and crash.

“Comprehensive coverage includes flood damage,” says Buck with GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s leading independent car insurance company.

Before you file a claim with your insurance company, take note of any electrical problems, rust, upholstery discoloration and staining, brittle wiring, silt and mud inside the vehicle and mildew or mold from moisture.

Additional assessing of your vehicle includes, checking the oil indicator. If it is too high, there may be water in your engine. You do not want to start your car because it can cause damage. Also, determine how long your car was submerged and how deep the water was. Was it fresh or saltwater? Fresh water is less damaging. By the way, warmer weather after a storm can accelerate corrosion.

If you are looking for affordable car insurance, check out GreatFlorida Insurance today.

The post Is your car storm ready? appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

10/5/2016

You know the drill when a storm is coming. Secure outdoor furniture and stock up on batteries, water and non-perishable food items.

“GreatFlorida Insurance regularly compiles storm safety tips for our readers,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent homeowners insurance agency. “Weather is unpredictable despite our best efforts and we want to help people be safe.”

While you are familiar with precautions to heed during a storm to ensure your safety, do you know what NOT to do during a storm? Florida Today, spoke with emergency management officials about activities to avoid during a storm to give you, your family and first responders an easier time while riding out the storm.

• Use a charcoal grill in the house or garage and you could end up with carbon monoxide poisoning. The same goes for gas powered generators.
• Also, don’t connect generators directly to your home’s electrical system. It can electrify lines outside and endanger your neighbors and utility workers.
• Stay home after an evacuation is ordered. Rescue workers will not try to reach you at the height of a storm.

“Consequently, some people stay home during an evacuation to protect their home or valuables, but it is not worth it. Let homeowners insurance do its job,” says Buck with GreatFlorida Insurance.

• Go for a ride or walk outside. Dangerous conditions causing flooding, flying debris and falling trees could force emergency management workers from other pressing duties.
• Visit the ER for minor injuries or illness
• Mess with downed power lines
• Drain your pool. The water table can rise from rain and force the pool up, out of the ground.
• Be careless or forget about candles
• Approach animals wandering around after a storm. Even docile pets can be unnerved by a storm and could bite.
• Bring guns, alcohol or pets to a public shelter.
• Lose your cool. Stores will be crowded, gas lines long, and people will be anxious and tempers will be short.
• Venture into the ocean or lagoon. There are always adrenaline junkies wanting to challenge the force of Mother Nature in the water, but it is a battle you rarely win.

To find out the latest information on Florida weather, evacuations, school and government closures and more, check out the Florida Division of Emergency Management.

When a storm hits, it is too late. Let GreatFlorida Insurance secure a dependable and affordable homeowners insurance plan for you.

The post Don’t Do This During a Storm appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

8/30/2016

Florida historically experiences the most severe weather over the next eight weeks. August through October is peak hurricane season. Recent tropical activity serves as a reminder of the importance of preparing.

“Seeing the recent devastation in Louisiana, and hearing the heartbreaking stories of loss, will hopefully prompt Floridians to review their insurance policy,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent homeowners insurance agency. “Insurance is designed to help people rebuild their lives.”

Consequently, this is an ideal time for people to contact their homeowners or renters insurance agent to review their coverage. The Insurance Information Institute, III reports that most insurers will not allow changes to be made to insurance policies once a hurricane watch or warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center.

Therefore, it is wise and will put your mind at ease knowing the following information about your renters insurance or homeowners insurance policy. Some questions to ask your agent are as follows:

What is covered?

Is coverage provided for any upgrades or new possessions?

What is the current deductible?

Do I have enough to rebuild my home or replace my belongings?

GreatFlorida Insurance can provide flood insurance to policyholders through the National Flood Insurance Program NFIP. A local GreatFlorida Insurance agent will help you find flood insurance. Protecting your most valuable asset from the most common form of destruction.

Consequently, flooding is the leading cause of disaster in the United States. Florida residents file more flood insurance claims than any other state. Mere inches can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage to your home.

You do not have to live in a high risk flood zone to experience damage. 25 percent of flood insurance claims come from low or medium risk communities.

Unfortunately, many homeowners are under the false assumption that their homeowners insurance would cover loss due to flooding in the home. Flood insurance is not included in a  homeowners policy and must be purchased separately.

Also, many homeowners assume they can collect federal disaster assistance if a flood occurs.  It is only offered when the president declares a major disaster which only happens in half of all flooding situations.

The post Storm Activity Necessitates Insurance Check appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

6/2/2016

Do you remember the last time a hurricane hit Florida? How can you take emergency managers seriously when the state has not seen a hurricane in over 10 years?

“Having experienced a hurricane drought over the past several years, it is easy to forget how destructive one hurricane can be to your property,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent flood insurance provider.

Hurricane season kicks off June 1 and runs through November 30. Weather forecasters believe Florida is long overdue for a storm. 10 years with no major storms has many on edge.

Hurricane Wilma made landfall October 2005 in Collier County with winds up to 120 mph. Several deaths were reported, while one-third of the state lost power. AccuWeather, reports an estimated $29.3 billion worth of damage.

There are growing concerns that Floridians are not preparing for a hurricane with the proper supplies and an evacuation plan. State officials warn of complacency and “hurricane amnesia.”

At the 2016 Governors Hurricane Conference, Florida Division of Emergency Management Director, Bryan Koon reported a “lack of awareness,” especially among the millions of new residents in Florida.

“It is responsible for GreatFlorida Insurance to communicate the risk to the public,” says Buck. People should check their homeowners insurance to make sure policies are up to date and coverage is sufficient.”

Many homeowners are under the false assumption that their homeowners insurance would cover loss caused by a flood in the home. Flood insurance is not included in your homeowners policy and must be purchased separately.

The entire state of Florida lies within FEMA’s (Federal Emergency Management Agency) highest designation of storm frequency, making Florida a flood zone with varying levels of risk.

This year NOAA, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, predicts a “near normal,” hurricane season. With a 70 percent chance of 10 to 16 named storms, of which four to eight could grow into hurricanes.

The Red Cross recommends keeping a container filled with water, one gallon of water per person, per day, a 3-day supply of non-perishable food, a battery powered or hand crank radio, flashlight and batteries, first aid kit, garbage bags for trash, hand wipes, local maps, prescription medication and a cell phone with a charger, preferably solar.

GreatFlorida Insurance can help protect your home with a Florida flood insurance policy provided by the National Flood Insurance Program.  Our homeowners insurance can cover hurricane damage incurred by windstorms.  Keep in mind; most homeowners insurance policies do not include flood damage. To learn more about our services, go online for a free quote at www.greatflorida.com.

The post Hurricane Amnesia appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

1/19/2016

What is important to you when it comes to selecting insurance? There is no right or wrong response, the answer is based on personal preferences.

A survey of over 400 agents and brokers from Insurance Journal found overall, regional insurance carriers scored better than national carriers. “Local insurance provides an opportunity for more personalized service, you’re not just a number” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s leading independent auto insurance agency in Florida.

In order to guide you through your decision making process, below is a list of the top ten reasons to choose a Florida based insurance agent rather than a nationally based one.

1. Customer Service – When calling a local agent, you will get them phone, giving you one- on- one service. Your personal agent is already familiar with your policy and coverage. When you phone a national insurance company, you will most likely reach a call center and a different representative every time.
2. Personal Contact – Local insurers are better at building personal relationships and getting to know their clients. They ask you specific questions and examine your needs more to make sure you are not underinsured. They can also make you aware of discounts, special savings or bundling opportunities for your car insurance and homeowner’s insurance.
3. Know the Area – A local insurance agent has intimate knowledge of your area. They can assess possible risks and will inform you if you require specific coverage. For instance, if your home address is in a flood zone and you require flood insurance not just homeowner’s insurance. They are also familiar with common claims in the area and can make recommendations due to that information.
4. Human Resources – A local insurance agent can serve as your personal HR department if you own a small business. If one of your employees has a question regarding their health insurance, they can inquire with the agent.
5. Flexibility – Local insurance agencies will offer more flexibility to customize coverage. National insurers usually work off a standard operating procedure.
6. Second chances – No one is perfect. If your driving history has a blemish, local insurance agencies are less rigid and more accommodating to offer car insurance coverage. A national carrier often has their hands tied to strict company policy.
7. Options -A local independent insurance agency, such as GreatFlorida Insurance, can comparison shop with different insurance providers for you. While a captive agent is obligated to one insurance company.
8. Support a Local Business – Money spent locally, stays in your community. Forbes points out; local businesses will give back to the community, further increasing community character and economic benefits to build up the area.
9. Prompt Service – Direct access to your agent usually means you get answers quicker and the claims administration process will be faster.
10. Security – With the constant breach of security at large companies online, inputting your personal data can leave you more vulnerable. Knowing who you are submitting your personal information directly to feels more secure.

GreatFlorida Insurance has been offering auto insurance and homeowner’s insurance throughout Florida for 25 years. Our independent insurance agents can find the right insurance for you, give us a call.

The post Buying Insurance Local vs National appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

4/14/2015

April 1, 2015, the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act went into effect. This will cause a rise in flood insurance for thousands of residents in flood zones, specifically those who have property in coastal areas and those living along lakes, rivers and bays in Florida.

“Unfortunately, this has been a long time coming. Many coastal residents knew the rising cost of flood insurance was inevitable. It is the price for living on the beach, said Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance.

The Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act allows the government to slowly phase out subsidized flood insurance for millions of Americans owning property in flood zones. “Florida accounts for 40 percent of all flood policies in the country with Pinellas County having more subsidized policies than any other county in the U.S.,” said Buck.

The new law will help repair the National Flood Insurance Program by reducing the $24 billion deficit as a result from payouts from Hurricane Katrina and Sandy. The goal is for insurance premiums to equal the risk of owning property in a flood zone.

Floridians owning primary residences in a flood zone will see an average of a 10 percent increase in their premiums as well as an annual surcharge. Homeowners with a secondary property in a flood zone as well as those who have experienced repeated flooding will continue to see their premiums rise by 18 to 25 percent a year until reaching a level consistent with their risk of flooding.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, (NOAA), “Flooding is the most frequent and severe weather threat.” With 90 percent of natural disasters in the U.S. being flood related, it is also the costliest natural disaster. Conservation groups support the new act as they say each year sea levels will continue to rise, making living close to the ocean more risky.

Florida homeowner insurance does not cover damage caused by a flood. Federal disaster assistance is only offered when the president declares a major disaster, which only happens half of the time. Flood insurance is available to protect homes and businesses through the National Flood Insurance Program.

For more questions about homeowners insurance and flood coverage contact GreatFlorida Insurance at 888-478-7801 to speak with an agent or visit our website at www.greatflorida.com.

The post Rising Flood Insurance appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

9/9/2014

September 2014 is National Preparedness Month. It is sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, (FEMA) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Their goal is to educate the public on how to prepare for emergencies. It was created after September 11 to increase awareness and encourage action for emergency preparedness nationwide.

The theme this year is, “Be Disaster Aware, Take Action to Prepare.” The campaign focuses on being informed, making a plan, building a kit and getting involved.

“The insurance industry revolves around being prepared. At GreatFlorida Insurance we are not interested in scaring people, we want to educate them on the value of being ready for the unexpected. You can be assured situations are going to happen throughout life and making a plan will help these events be less traumatic when they occur,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance.

September is also the peak of hurricane season. As predicted, it has been a quiet storm season this year but being prepared does not hurt.

Hurricane season continues until November 30. You do not want to be caught off guard by a rapidly approaching storm that will leave you scrambling for supplies at the store with all your neighbors at the last minute.

Potential adversities can range from natural disasters, blackouts, hazardous chemical incidents and terrorist attacks. Organizing a family plan is the best place to begin. FEMA suggests addressing three points when making a family plan, who to call, where to meet and what to pack.

Get your entire family involved in the decision making process so they understand and become familiar with the routine. If you are not together when disaster strikes plan how you will communicate with one another, how will you get to a safe place and how you will get back together.

Review the emergency plan of places you spend time such as work and school.

If you do not have an emergency kit prepared, it is wise to get one together. Consider making one to keep in your car and one at home. Begin with the essentials:

•         Water-rule of thumb is one gallon per person per day for 3 days
•         Food-non-perishable items for at least 3 days for each person
•         A battery powered or hand crank radio
•         Flashlight with extra batteries
•         First aid kit
•         Multi-purpose tool, such as Swiss Army knife
•         Personal hygiene items
•         Plastic bag for trash
•         Map of your area
•         Medications
•         A copy of important documents- birth certificates, passport, insurance policies, etc.
•         Blanket
•         Emergency contact information
•         Cell phone and charger

Try to always keep at least half a tank of gas in your car in case you need to hit the road in hurry and some cash on hand or in your emergency kit.

These are the minimum recommendations; additional items include a whistle, matches in a waterproof container, surgical masks, plastic sheeting and extra clothes. Further detailed information is provided at ready.gov, the CDC and the American Red Cross.

When you need protection against life’s unforeseen events, GreatFlorida Insurance is here for you. Although we cannot prevent accidents and disasters our goal is to help Floridians have protection in place when situations occur.

Our personal and knowledgeable insurance agents can help you find the most affordable auto, home, business, boat, renter’s and health insurance as well as an umbrella policy.

Visit us online at www.greatflorida.com or call us at 888-478-7801.

The post September is National Preparedness Month. Are You Ready? appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.