What is a flood, and what isn't?
Flood versus water damage - what's the difference?
Most property policies specifically exclude flood, but they do include coverage for water damage. How can you tell what is a flood and what's water damage?
Per the Federal Emergency Management Agency, flood is described as a general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres of normally dry land or more properties. At least one of the properties affected must belong to a policyholder. This water can come from:
- an overflow of tidal or inland waters
- mudslides
- collapse of land along the shore as a result of erosion or excessive waves
- unusual or rapid accumulation of surface waters from any source
- Storm surge or heavy rain
So what isn't considered a flood?
- Wind driven rain damage - rain comes through an open window in your home and causes water damage. This would typically be covered under your homeowners or property policy.
- A pipe bursting - you may feel your building has been flooded, but it's just incurred water damage.
- Sewer water backing up into the home - this would be covered by an endorsement called "water and sump back up", not flood insurance.
- An appliance leaking water into your office - this would typically be covered under a property policy, and would not fall under flood insurance.
Generally speaking, if water is rising outside, it's usually a flood. If it's coming down from above, it's water damage. Many property owners are shocked to find out that rising waters aren't covered in their insurance policies. Not sure if you have flood coverage? Give us a call and we can give you a free risk assessment to ensure you're properly protected!
