Too many people have had to learn this lesson the hard way, said Commerce Commissioner Steve Minn. Home insurance policies do not cover losses caused by floods. Flooding can happed to anyone at any time not just those living on a flood plain. Flood insurance is available through your local insurance agent. Flood insurance is affordable. Floods can be caused by snowmelt, heavy rains, and water backup from overloaded drainage systems, as well as other causes.
Flood insurance pays even if there is no official disaster declaration.
Federal disaster aid is only available if the president declares a disaster. According to the Federal Emergency Management Administration, more than 90 percent of all disasters in the U.S. do not receive that declaration. Some types of property not covered by flood insurance include most contents and finishing materials in basements. See your agent for specific policy provisions.