Many Maryland residents face the threat of flooding. Hurricanes and tropical storms frequently create tidal flooding along the state’s bays and tributaries, while flash floods often occur around small streams and creeks. 

Flooding can damage homes, possessions and people’s livelihoods. Therefore, if you live in a high-risk flood area, flood insurance is crucial.  

What Is Flood Insurance? 
Flood insurance can help protect you from the destruction and financial devastation that flooding can cause.  

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) underwrites most flood insurance plans. You can usually buy NFIP plans through major insurers and the NFIP Direct system.  

There are two types of coverage with NFIP plans: structure insurance, which covers your home, and contents coverage, which financially protects your belongings. There may also be coverage for debris removal costs, loss avoidance and compliance costs. We can help you explore your options for insurance coverage. 

What Coverage Does Flood Insurance Provide? 
Flood insurance can protect your home by covering systems and damage, including: 

• Electrical and plumbing systems
• Flood debris cleanup
• Furnace, water heater and central air conditioning
• Structural damage 

Flood insurance doesn’t take effect until 30 days after you purchase a policy. However, if your lender requires that you have flood insurance to make, increase, extend or renew your loan, there’s no waiting period.  

Is Flood Insurance Required? 
If your home is in a high-risk flood area and you have a mortgage from a federally regulated or insured lender, your lender may be legally mandated to require you to have flood insurance. However, that’s not the case if your home is in a moderate- or low-risk area.  

It’s a good idea to see your lender’s requirements for flood insurance. Then, we can help you obtain a policy that meets your needs. 

Reduce Your Risk 
A flood insurance policy can potentially reduce your flood damage costs. Halkos Insurance Agency has been proudly protecting Maryland residents since 1990. Call us at 301-206-5464 to get your flood protection.