Flooding can cause a lot of damage to your home and belongings. If you live in an area prone to flooding, it’s important to have flood insurance. The question is, how long does a flood insurance policy take to go into effect?
Here are some tips on what to do if you experience a flood:
Federal Insurance Waiting Periods
There is a mandatory waiting period of 30 days for all National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policies. This waiting period begins on the date of purchase. Private flood insurance policies may have different waiting periods, so it’s important to check with your insurer. If you purchase a policy mid-way through a flooding season, it’s important to know that your policy will not cover any damage that occurs during the waiting period.
Private flooding Insurance Waiting Periods
Private insurers usually have a shorter waiting period of about 14 days. Some companies may have a 10-day waiting period. Others may offer coverage immediately if you’re willing to pay a higher premium. If you live in an area prone to flooding, such as Florida, it’s important to purchase flood insurance as soon as possible.
What to Do if You Experience a Flood
If you experience a flood, the first thing you should do is call your insurance company. A professional insurer like Americas Insurance Associates will send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine if your policy covers it.
If your policy doesn’t cover the damage, you may be able to file a claim with the National Flood Insurance Program. If you don’t have flood insurance, you’ll have to pay for the repairs out of your own pocket. Flooding can cause a lot of damage, so it’s important to be prepared.
Contact Us Today
If you’re thinking of purchasing flood insurance, Americas Insurance Associates in Florida can help. We’re a leading provider of flood insurance in Florida, and we’re here to answer all your questions. Give us a call today to learn more about our policies and how long it will take for them to go into effect.
