With all the changes in weather patterns we have seen over the last 10 years, one thing is clear: floods will increasingly appear in areas that have rarely, if ever, experienced them before. Meanwhile, areas that regularly flood now will be flooding even more frequently. As a private homeowner, renter or commercial property owner, it’s essential that you try to protect yourself from the costs of flooding due to rising water levels, storms and hurricanes. You never know when your home or building will be flooded due to natural events or human mismanagement. Even an inch of water can cause terrible damage so be safe – not sorry!

Linares Insurance Agency is a National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) approved agent. Established in 1968, the National Floor Insurance Programs is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA. The NFIP protects local communities in the United States from the devastating financial fallout caused by flooding. Today, the NFIP is really the only way to ensure your home or business from flooding. If your home or commercial building is located in an NFIP coverage area, call one of our NFIP-approved agents to get a quote. You’ll find the cost is quite reasonable.

NFIP flood insurance purchased through a Linares Insurance agent offers contents, building and replacement cost coverage. The maximum coverage for your possessions (contents) is $100,000. The maximum coverage for your home (building) is $250,000. You can ensure a non-residential building up to $500,000.

Believe it or not, damage to the inside of your home or property can be more devastating than the damage to your building structure. Make sure you get coverage for the contents of your home or commercial property. Carefully assess the value of clothes and furnishings. Also consider the cost of portable kitchen appliances, portable heating and cooling systems and non-permanent flooring.

Your home or commercial structure coverage includes above ground appliances and other permanent structural elements. All built-in heating and cooling systems are included. All built-in or permanent cabinetry, window treatments, wall and floor coverings, and bookcases are covered. In commercial buildings, elevator equipment, sprinkler systems and outdoor antennas fastened to the building are included.

Basements are defined as any room with a floor below ground level on all sides. The coverage for basements is limited to such items as heating and cooling mechanicals, sump pumps, utility connections, electrical wiring and electrical boxes, and the supports and anchors for the building and room walls. Some cleanup costs are also covered.

It normally takes about 30 days from the date of purchase for the insurance policy to go into effect, so don’t wait. If your street always floods when it rains or your home sits near a river, pick up the phone and call a Linares Insurance NFIP-approved agent today. Don’t wait for the rain to start falling. Get your flood insurance coverage today — for you and your family’s peace of mind.