Are You or a Loved One the Victim of Bad Flood Insurance Coverage?

There are times each year when many may experience flooding. This may be because of heavy rain, a storm, or even some accident. No matter the reason, when a flood occurs, we may not know where to turn for help. Many of us even here in Tennessee may call our insurance agents only to be told your insurance does not cover floods or that it only covers the damages to your home and not your personal property. This is why it is important to know about flood insurance coverage and who to turn to when you have questions or concerns.

WHAT ARE SOME FACTS ABOUT FLOOD INSURANCE THAT I NEED TO KNOW?

For many people, the sad truth is that they did not know that they may not have had flood coverage or that they did not have enough. This may have been because an agent failed to properly inform them about flood coverage, the importance of it and why it may be needed or they did not advise them that they may be at risk for flooding. This is why it is important to know some facts about flood insurance. They include but are not limited to:

• Floods happen in every state
• Everyone lives in a flood zone
• Homeowners insurance may not cover flooding or flood damages
• If you live in high risk areas, your mortgage lender requires you to have flood insurance
• Just an inch of water may damage property
• Land developments may increase the risk for flooding
• If you live in moderate to low risk area, you may qualify for preferred risk coverage at a low cost
• If your community is a part of the National Flood Insurance Program, you qualify for flood insurance
• It may take up to 30 days for a policy to take effect

WHAT IS THE NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM AND HOW CAN IT HELP?

The National Flood Insurance Program is what covers your flood insurance payments and policies. There are many rules and policies that the program has to be able to receive compensation from a flood insurance claim. One of the most important rules is that a proof of loss claim that tells in full detail the amount of insured damages you have is expected to be filed and received by the program within 30 days after your loss. In 2005, the National Flood Insurance Program awarded 1.6 million to people for flood claims.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I WOULD LIKE TO FILE A FLOOD INSURANCE CLAIM?

Filing flood insurance claim can be complicated. There are many factors including under payment by the insurance company, claiming that that was all your policy covered, extremely low estimates from adjusters, or a lack of experience in dealing with flood insurance.

It is important that you gather any and all evidence of the damage caused by a flood as well as any insurance paperwork and then you speak with one of our experienced Tennessee flood insurance attorneys at the Higgins Firm. At the Higgins Firm we know about flooding. We have experienced damages and losses too, and we understand what is like to suffer such property and personal damage. We will hear your case and work with experts and other specialists to help assess the amount of damage and help you receive the compensation you deserve.

You may contact one of our experienced Tennessee flood insurance attorneys online or call us at 800.705.2121 to set up a FREE consultation to discuss your legal options.