When your home is flooded, it can lead to financial ruin if you don't have the proper insurance. And note this: A basic homeowners policy won't cover your flood damage! You need flood insurance — a special policy backed by the federal government, with cooperation from local communities and private insurance companies.

Although flood insurance is relatively inexpensive, most Americans neglect to purchase protection. Only about one-quarter of the homes in areas most vulnerable are insured against flood loss, according to the Federal Insurance Administration (FIA). In those areas, flooding is 26 times more likely to occur than a fire during the course of a typical 30-year mortgage.

Floods and flash floods can occur anytime, anywhere. What's your best defense against devastating financial loss? Be prepared! Take a moment now to learn about your risks, resources and responsibilities.

Knowing your risk profile - whether you live in a low-to moderate-risk or high-risk flood zone—will help you understand your risk of financial loss. Understand your risk level of flooding for your home and property and choose the appropriate level of protection.

Remember : the lower the risk to your property, the less expensive it is to insure. And the higher the risk, the greater importance that you protect your investment with the appropriate type of flood insurance.
In all 50 states … on coasts, on mountains, along rivers, in the desert … in towns and cities of every size … floods happen.
The most important thing you can do to protect yourself from financial loss is to have flood insurance. Floods can also pose life-threatening risks to you and your family. So be smart. Be FloodSmart. Be prepared for anything nature sends your way.