NJ Spring Floods Insurance Tips
How to Navigate Flood Season
Spring showers bring flowers – and a higher risk of flooding! Melting snow and heavy rain can lead to serious flooding. Read on to learn more about how to navigate flood season.
Are You Covered?
Home Insurance: While standard home insurance covers water damage caused by things like a broken pipe or roof leakage, it does not cover damage due to floods.
Auto Insurance: Comprehensive coverage is an optional coverage that covers damage due natural disasters including flooding.
Flood Insurance: is a separate policy that protects your home and belongings from damage caused by rising water
Before Spring Storms
• Evaluate your policies with your agent, making sure you understand what is and isn’t covered in case of a flood.
• Protect electronics and valuables stored in your basement by putting them in waterproof containers.
• Make an inventory and take pictures of your possessions in case you need to submit a post-flood claim.
• Install a sump pump or sewer backflow valve in your basement and get a battery-powered pump as a backup in case of a power outage.
• Remove debris from window wells, gutters and downspouts, and check for leaks around doors and windows.
• Move your car to higher ground and remove any important documents, including the registration.
After A Flood Occurs
• Be cautious when driving through streets with large puddles, as some puddles may be deeper than they appear and can harm your car.
• If your home or vehicle is damaged due to a flood, file a claim as soon as possible. Document what’s been affected before you begin to repair the damage.
• If your car is submerged, don’t attempt to start your car. If possible, take photos of your vehicle in water (showing the license plate) to document the height of the water and any damages caused to your vehicle.
• Check your car’s oil level, as a reading that’s too high may indicate that there’s water in the engine.
If you have any questions about your current coverage or would like a quote, don't hesitate to contact us at the Gansfuss Agency. Your local Hunterdon County Independent Insurance Agent.