White Mountain Independent
December 24th, 2010

WHITE MOUNTAINS - Heavy winter rains in Northern Arizona are flooding rivers and streams washing away homes and communities in Mohave County. But many residents in flooded areas face the risk of uncovered losses because they don't have flood insurance according to the Arizona Insurance Council (AIC).

Flood insurance must be purchased separately from homeowner's insurance. Coverage for that peril is available through the federal government's National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Go to www.floodsmart.gov or phone 1-888-379-9531 to learn more. Because there is a 30-day waiting period before most policies go into effect, Arizona residents are urged to contact their insurance agent or representative and the NFIP as soon as possible.

According to the NFIP, the average annual premium for flood insurance in the US is around $558. Compare that to the fact that just four inches of flood water in the average home will create over $7,800 in damages; and the average flood insurance claim in the US was over $49,000 for the past ten years (through 2008).

"Arizona's winter storms cause damage by rapidly rising flood waters that can only be covered by a separate flood insurance policy," says Ron Williams, executive director of the Arizona Insurance Council (AIC). "Check with your insurance agent or company representative about your current homeowners' coverages and what additional coverage you may need through the National Flood Insurance Program."

Flood insurance covers losses to property where flooding damages structures, furnaces, water heaters and air conditioning units; floor surfaces (carpeting and title); and pays for cleanup of flood debris. You can also buy flood insurance coverage for the contents of your home.

To learn more about property and casualty insurance in Arizona visit the AIC web site at www.azinsurance.org.