Data from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) shows that 90 percent of all natural disasters in the U.S. involve flooding. Flooding is a particularly common occurrence in the state of Florida. It can be a coast to coast threat that can happen at any time of the year, not just during hurricane season.

Did you know that while homeowner's insurance covers a leaky roof, broken pipes, fire, hail, windstorm and many weather-related claims, it does not cover flooding? If a flood were to happen today, would you be prepared? Before disaster strikes, get to know your risk of flooding, understand what your insurance does and doesn't cover, and plan accordingly. 

1. If you didn't live in a flood zone when you bought your home, there's a chance you could now. While the government does its best to estimate where flooding will occur, their models and flood maps are changing and may not reflect the current risk for flooding.

2. Don’t forego purchasing insurance thinking that you can rely on federal disaster aid. Only half of all natural disasters trigger federal assistance. While some grants are available, most federal disaster aid comes as low-interest loans that must be repaid. 

3. If a homeowner does accept Federal disaster assistance for flooding, the homeowner must then purchase and maintain flood insurance to be eligible for future disaster assistance.

4. For properties in high-risk flood zones, mortgage lenders can require borrowers to carry flood insurance. If you're required to have flood insurance, and fail to purchase or maintain adequate coverage, your lender can force purchase it on your behalf and bill you for it. 

5. Know your coverage limits. Flood insurance coverage for the structure of a home is sold separately from coverage for its contents. Most policies do not cover true replacement costs and involve a cap on your home’s structure and contents. If the value of your home or its contents exceeds standard coverage limits, you can purchase excess coverage through private insurers.

6. Flood insurance does not cover vehicles (which are covered by auto insurance), most items in basements or living expenses, should you have to move out of your home after it floods.

In the event of catastrophic flooding, having flood insurance, in the right amount, can mean the difference between being able to recover and financial devastation. To get more information about how you can protect yourself from financial loss with flood insurance, visit the National Flood Insurance Program website, or call 1.800.427.4661.