FLOOD INSURANCE
Utah is a desert state, with low yearly rainfall amounts. Flooding is not uppermost in the minds of most Utahns. However, in 2004, the National Flood Insurance Program paid 727 flood claims to Utah residents totaling $4,804,345.58.
We are all susceptible to flooding. For example: surface water from a sprinkler or hose, overflow of canals, ditches or streams; mud slides or collapsed earth and walls due to leakage of underground water pipes. It was the leakage of a water pipe that sent mud sliding down a hill and through the homes of a community in Riverdale, Utah in 1999.
Homeowners insurance does not cover these types of losses. Flood insurance policies are available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). If your agent does not write flood insurance you can find one that does by either:
- Checking your local Yellow Pages directory under "Insurance;"
- Going to http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/pages/index.jsp. and click on "Find an Agent." Fill in the information requested to get a list of agents in your general area; or
- 1-888-CALL FLOOD (2255-35663).
To get a list of 20 insurance companies selling flood insurance in Utah go to our Market Share Reports and look up Flood Insurance.
It's a good idea to have the same agent who writes your homeowners or other insurance policies also write your flood insurance policy so in the event you need to file a claim, you only have to work with one insurance agency or company.
Be aware that these policies have a 30-day waiting period before they take effect, so the time to purchase is now. Because of the increased rainfall in the Spring, reduced plant growth on mountain sides and melting snow in the mountains, the chance of flooding is at its peak this time of year.
To find out what flood zone you live in, and much, much more go to http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/pages/index.jsp and click on "What's Your Flood Risk?"
Also, see a 2007 Consumer Alert regarding flood insurance.
