Why Flood Insurance Is A Hot Topic

Flood insurance is often a hot topic because there is a lot of misinformation about this important type of coverage. Here at Ellis Insurance Agency, serving San Antonio, TX, and the surrounding areas, we want customers to be well-informed so that they can make confident decisions based on facts, not fear. Here are a few things you should know about flood insurance. 

Often Not Included in Homeowners’ Insurance

The first thing you need to know about flood insurance is that it’s often not included in homeowners’ policies. There are many reasons behind this, but it’s most important that you don’t assume you have coverage. You need to talk with the home insurance provider and find out everything you need to know about flood coverage. 

There Are Different Types of Flooding

You also need to be aware that there are different types of flooding in the world of insurance coverage. There is naturally occurring flooding and indoor flooding. Indoor flooring is caused by problems with your plumbing or appliances. Naturally occurring flooding is caused by a natural disaster. Homeowners’ policies often cover indoor flooding but do not cover naturally occurring flooding.  

Coverage Is Based On Many Factors

One of the reasons why flood insurance isn’t included in homeowners’ policies is because so many factors need to be considered. Each flood policy is very unique. To get a quote on flood insurance, you’ll need to sit down with knowledgeable insurance professionals to discuss all of your risk factors. 

If you’d like to learn more about flood insurance, please contact us at Ellis Insurance Agency, serving San Antonio, TX, and the surrounding areas. 

4 Times You Should Buy Flood Insurance

Flood insurance is increasingly important, considering that the climate seems to be less predictable than ever. Ellis Insurance Agency, serving San Antonio, TX, offers flood insurance any time of the year; there’s no need to wait for a special flood insurance enrollment period.

Here are four times when you should consider this important investment:

1. You Hold Business Inventory

Flood insurance isn’t just for homeowners. It’s also available for commercial buildings, such as warehouses and distribution centers. If you hold business inventory inside a separate building, you should definitely buy flood insurance to cover that premises. There’s no reason you should risk your business to flooding.

2. You Live in a Low-Lying Area

Even if your property isn’t technically in a flood zone, you should consider flood insurance if it’s in a low-lying area. Freak rainfall and flash floods can occur almost anywhere, including in arid climates like San Antonio. Valleys and other low-lying areas are particularly susceptible to these weather events.

3. Following Certain Regional Environmental Changes

If there have been recent changes in your local environment, such as new construction, deforestation, or changes in nearby water systems, these can actually alter water runoff patterns and increase your flood risk.

4. If Flooding Has Occurred in the Past

It pays to research the historical records of both flooding in the area and flooding in your property. The previous owners may be able to tell you if your property has flooded in the past, but local town hall records might be more accurate and reliable. In any case, past flooding can be an indicator of future risk.

Call Today To Discuss Your Options

For help assessing your need for flood insurance, contact your insurance professionals at Ellis Insurance Agency serving San Antonio, TX. We look forward to serving your needs.

Three things you’ll like about having flood insurance

Purchasing flood insurance is important so that you can protect your finances. We at Ellis Insurance Agency offer flood insurance to those who own a home in San Antonio, TX. 

Homeowners can benefit in numerous ways when they invest in flood insurance.

The following are three things you’ll like about having flood insurance.

Being less stressed out about possible flood damage.

Not carrying adequate flood insurance is stressful. If your area experiences flooding, you’ll be worried that your home will be severely damaged. Without flood insurance, this could be a huge financial setback that has a significant negative impact on your future. 

When you’re carrying flood insurance, you experience less stress about flooding and enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that your property is covered. 

Avoiding financial loss if there is a large flood in your area

Flooding can wreak havoc on a home. Flood damage can often be so severe that it makes it so that a home is no longer safe to live in.

Flood insurance is an important investment that will help to minimize the financial consequences you face if your home becomes damaged or destroyed by flooding. 

Meeting the requirements of your mortgage lender

Some homeowners are required to carry flood insurance. If you live in an area with a high risk of flooding, your mortgage lender probably requires you to purchase a flood insurance policy. 

You’ll need to carry flood insurance until you pay off your mortgage loan if your lender requires flood insurance coverage. 

Reach Out To Us

Let us answer your flood insurance questions at Ellis Insurance Agency. We can protect your home in San Antonio, TX by offering you a flood insurance policy that meets your needs. Get in touch with us today to get a quote on a policy. 

What All Homeowners in San Antonio Should Know About Flood Insurance

A common misconception that homeowners in San Antonio, TX often have is if their home has flood damage, it will be covered by their homeowner’s insurance. Unfortunately, the truth is damage caused by flood waters is often not covered by your homeowner’s policy. To ensure your home is protected from flood waters, you’ll need to purchase a flood insurance policy.

Do San Antonio Residents Need Flood Insurance?

In Texas, homeowners are not required by law to purchase a flood insurance policy. However, if your property is located inside a high-risk flood zone, it is recommended that you purchase coverage, especially if it is a condition of your mortgage.

Still, even if you don’t have a mortgage, it is a good idea to have a flood insurance policy. While this may not be as necessary for those living in low-risk areas, it is highly recommended for anyone living in moderate to high-risk areas.

Is Flooding Serious in San Antonio, TX?

According to SARA (San Antonio River Authority), San Antonio is one of the most flood-prone and flash-flood-prone regions in the country. It is estimated that around 28,000 residents in Texas live on exposed land that is 4 feet below sea level. Since Texas is prone to heavy rains and flooding, those who live in San Antonio and other high-risk areas are in danger during the storm season.

Contact Ellis Insurance Agency for More Information About Flood Insurance 

If you have concerns about flood safety and would like to learn more about flood insurance coverage, get in touch with our team here at Ellis Insurance Agency today. We look forward to providing you with peace of mind by answering any questions you may have.

Winter Freeze Safety Tips

Are you ready for the big chill? Please follow these guidelines to ensure you keep your family, your home, and your animals safe!

Here are some DO’s and DONT’s to help keep you safe this winter:

DO:

  • Make sure you have enough food, water, and prescription medication to last 3-4 days.
  • Bring all outdoor pets inside.
  • Use cat litter or salt for icy driveways if you must leave.
  • Remove debris from your gutters to prevent stagnant water that could freeze.
  • Have battery powered flashlights available.
  • Wear a tightly woven, preferably wind-resistant coat or jacket; inner layers of light, warm clothing; mittens; hats; scarves; and waterproof boots.
  • Bring potted plants inside or clump together; cover outdoor plants.

DON’T:

  • Don’t use an oven or stove to heat your home.
  • Don’t leave pets outside.
  • Don’t overexert yourself – stay hydrated if you are working outside.
  • Don’t place a space heater on top of furniture.

We all hope you stay safe and find these winter safety tips helpful!

Why Should I Invest in Flood Insurance?

Is there anything worse than undergoing a natural disaster? Perhaps there is, but dealing with the aftermath of a natural calamity is never child play. Floods are one of the most common disasters in the US. And boy, when floods strike, most residents are left counting losses upon losses. 

Given that floods are ubiquitous in the US, you might wonder how you can protect yourself. While arming yourself with precautionary tips during floods is superb, flood insurance coverage ensures that your home is livable even after floods damage.

Still not convinced why you should invest in flood insurance? Ellis Insurance Agency of San Antonio, TX, shares more reasons.

It may be required

While Texas doesn’t require residents to purchase flood insurance, your lender may insist you purchase coverage if you live in a flood plain area. And even if your property is in a low flood-risk area, your lender may still require you to invest in flood insurance. But whether flood insurance is compulsory or not, you need it. 

Home insurance doesn’t cover floods

Home insurance is an excellent investment to protect your home. Unfortunately, typical home insurance doesn’t cover flood damage. As a result, you require flood insurance from private insurers or the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to protect your home against floods.

Floods can strike anywhere

According to FEMA, there is a 26% chance that you will experience floods at some point during a 30-year mortgage period! Floods can strike anywhere, and sometimes without warning. The only way you can be safe is by purchasing flood insurance.

Flood insurance in San Antonio, TX

If it rains, floods can strike anytime and anywhere. And even if you live in a low-risk area, you are not entirely safe. About 20% of flood insurance claims come from residents living outside high-risk areas! Are you ready to get started with flood insurance? Contact Ellis Insurance Agency today.