BISMARCK, N.D.-North Dakota Insurance Commissioner Adam Hamm today encouraged homeowners and business owners to educate themselves about flood risks and flood insurance.
Property owners should be aware of their flood risk. Floodplain maps can be found at www.msc.fema.gov. Enter your address in the box on the left side of the screen. Floodplain Zone A has the highest risk for flooding; however, 25 percent of all flood insurance claims are paid out to policyholders in lower-risk zones.
"I encourage everyone to learn about the risks of living in a flood plain and how they can protect their property," Hamm said. "Property owners in high risk areas may want to consider purchasing flood insurance."
Flood insurance is offered and underwritten by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Several insurance companies in North Dakota write and service flood policies through the NFIP. Flood insurance policies kick in 30 days after purchase.
"Traditional homeowners' insurance policies do not cover flooding or sewer back up," Hamm added. "Consumers should talk to their insurance agent about their policy's limits and what other coverage can be purchased separately."
For more information, contact your insurance agent or the NFIP at 1.800.638.6620 or www.floodsmart.gov. Consumers are also welcome to call the North Dakota Insurance Department at 1.800.247.0560 or visit www.nd.gov/ndins.
