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National Flood Insurance Program
What is the National Flood Insurance Program?
It is estimated that there is a 25% chance of experiencing a flood during the life of a 30 year mortgage. Homeowner's insurance does not cover flood damage so it is essential to purchase flood insurance. Federally backed flood insurance is available through FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).The NFIP was established with the passage of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 and enables property owners to purchase flood insurance as protection against flood losses whether they are located in the floodplain or not. Over 20,000 communities participate in the National Flood Insurance Program. Baldwin Borough is one of these communities.
Am I Eligible?
Any person living within a community that participates in the NFIP is eligible to purchase the flood insurance, though it is not required. However, NFIP flood insurance is mandatory for those who live within the Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) or have a federally backed mortgage. To find out if you live in an area that may require flood insurance click here.To find out why you should buy flood insurance if you live outside of the SFHA click here.
What does it Cover?
NFIP insurance covers structural building damage caused directly by surface flooding including a river flowing over its banks or local drainage problems. Structural damage includes all walls, floors, insulation, furnaces and other items permanently attached to the structure. Standard NFIP insurance does not cover contents but contents insurance can be purchased separately to cover personal belongings.There is a 30 day waiting period before flood insurance coverage goes into effect so do not wait until a disaster strikes to purchase! For more information about the NFIP and how to purchase flood insurance click here or check out the helpful documents listed below.